Location: Martin County, NC | Metro: Greenville, NC MSA
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $870 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,050 | $69,358 | 1.51% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,400 | $158,106 | 0.89% | C |
| 4BR | $1,700 | $241,343 | 0.7% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 27812 in Bethel, North Carolina, is part of Edgecombe County and stands out due to its relatively low population of 2,188 residents, with 30.4% of them renting their homes. The median income here is $53,268, which is slightly above the national average, but the median home value of $151,429 suggests a modest cost of living compared to other regions.
For landlords and small-portfolio investors considering Section 8 vouchers, the data reveals a significant opportunity. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 27812 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1000, while the actual market rent based on Census ACS data is only $725. This discrepancy means that landlords can potentially receive a higher rental income through the Section 8 program than they would in the open market, thus providing a financial incentive to participate.
The economic stability of ZIP 27812 can be seen in the steady median income levels and the modest median home values. However, the relatively high percentage of renters and the disparity between the FMR and the market rent suggest a transitional environment where government assistance plays a crucial role in housing affordability. This transitional nature indicates a dynamic market influenced by both local economic conditions and federal housing policies, making it an area worth monitoring for changes in the rental market and potential shifts in the housing landscape.
In conclusion, ZIP 27812 presents a unique scenario where the benefits of the Section 8 program are particularly pronounced. Landlords and investors should consider the higher voucher rates as a way to stabilize cash flow and maintain property occupancy in a transitional ZIP code.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.