Location: Wilson County, NC | Metro: Goldsboro, 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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,111 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,553 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,120 | $130,881 | 0.86% | C |
| 3BR | $1,350 | $234,820 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 27851, Lucama, NC, on the yield and stability axes reveals a nuanced market scenario. On the yield axis, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for 2024 is set at $1090, while the average market rent stands at $842. This indicates that the rental market is below the federally recommended rate, suggesting a potential opportunity for higher-than-average rental yields if properties can be rented closer to the FMR. However, the median home value in the area is significantly higher at $216,322, which could imply higher costs for property acquisition and maintenance.
Moving to the stability axis, the data shows that 25.4% of residents are renters. This figure is relatively low, indicating a smaller pool of potential tenants compared to areas with a higher percentage of renters. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to assess how quickly properties might turn over, but the median household income of $66,750 provides some insight into the financial capability of the local population to sustain rental payments.
Given these figures, ZIP 27851 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability market. The lower market rent compared to the FMR suggests room for modest increases in rental rates, but the significant home values indicate that the initial investment and ongoing expenses will be substantial. While the rental yield might not be as high as in other markets, the stability offered by the local income levels and the moderate turnover risk make it a suitable option for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking for consistent returns.
To summarize, the key figures driving this assessment are the $1090 FMR versus the $842 market rent, the $216,322 median home value, and the $66,750 median household income. These metrics point to a balanced market where steady cash flow is achievable without the volatility associated with high-yield markets.
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.