Location: Dare County, NC | Metro: Dare County, NC
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 | $1,100 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,134 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,581 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,710 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,770 | $340,166 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 27953, located in Dare County, NC, reveals key insights for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD for the metro area, effective in fiscal year 2026, is $1,320. This figure contrasts with the market rent of $1,248 as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS).
Voucher tenants in this area will cashflow at the FMR level, indicating that landlords can expect a positive cash flow when renting to tenants with Section 8 vouchers. The difference between the HUD FMR and the actual market rent suggests that landlords who participate in the Section 8 program can charge close to the FMR without significantly overpricing their units relative to the local market.
To further understand the investment landscape, consider the median home value in ZIP 27953, which stands at $349,180. Using this figure, we can calculate a rent-to-price ratio. Assuming an average mortgage rate and property taxes, this ratio indicates that rental properties can be competitive with owner-occupied homes, making the decision to rent versus buy less straightforward for potential homeowners.
In terms of days on market (DOM), the data is currently not available (N/A), but it is worth noting that the lack of specific DOM and price-cut percentage figures does not detract from the overall positive outlook for rental investments. The stability of the rental market in ZIP 27953 is supported by the consistent demand for housing and the favorable cash flow from Section 8 tenants.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 27953 is cashflow. Given the positive difference between the HUD FMR and the local market rent, landlords can expect steady income from Section 8 tenants without the need to offer premium units. This makes the area attractive for those looking to generate reliable rental income.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.