Location: Wilson County, NC | Metro: Rocky Mount, 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 | $960 |
| 1 Bedroom | $970 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,638 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,210 | $178,947 | 0.68% | D |
| 3BR | $1,540 | $269,731 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $1,880 | $382,394 | 0.49% | F |
| 5BR | $2,181 | $458,028 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 27896 in Wilson, NC, stands out due to its demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 19,455 residents, it has a rental rate of 27.7%, which is slightly above the national average. The median income in this area is $75,696, reflecting a relatively stable financial situation among its inhabitants. However, the median home value at $279,867 indicates that homeownership is less common compared to other areas, likely due to the high proportion of renters.
Turning to the voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 27896 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,170. This figure contrasts sharply with the ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index), which stands at $1,672. This discrepancy suggests that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can expect lower rent payments than those who rely solely on market rates. Given these numbers, it's clear that landlords should carefully consider their options when deciding whether to participate in the Section 8 program.
The data signature for ZIP 27896 reads as stable, with a modest rental rate and a median income that supports both renting and limited homeownership. The significant gap between the FMR and ZORI indicates a strong preference for market-rate rents, which could be seen as a transitional element within the broader stable picture. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should weigh the benefits of long-term stability against the potential for higher returns through market-rate rentals.
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.