Location: Pender County, NC | Metro: Wilmington, NC HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,470 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,800 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,248 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,638 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,929 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,125 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,100 | $313,094 | 0.67% | D |
| 3BR | $2,770 | $397,718 | 0.7% | D |
| 4BR | $2,800 | $625,654 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $3,248 | $774,367 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1780 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 28411 in Wilmington, NC, for fiscal year 2024, setting a clear benchmark for rental properties. 1799 represents the actual market rent (ZORI), indicating that properties are priced slightly above the FMR, suggesting a competitive local rental market. 463,597 is the median home value, reflecting a robust housing market where property investments can yield significant returns. 19.5 is the percentage of residents who are renters, showing a substantial demand for rental units. 97,387 is the median income figure, which suggests that most residents can afford the rents listed in the market. 26 days is the average Days on Market (DOM) for listings, indicating a quick turnover rate and a potentially high occupancy rate for landlords. 0.3 is the percentage of homes that have been price-cut, which is very low, implying strong seller's market conditions.
In ZIP code 28411, the gap between the FMR and ZORI indicates a slight premium landlords can charge, while the low price-cut share and quick DOM suggest that homes are selling fast without needing to reduce prices. The median income supports the ability of residents to pay market rates, making it a viable area for rental investments. Given these factors, the rental market in Wilmington, NC, appears to be stable and profitable for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
Based on the data, the Section 8 program is a feasible option for landlords in ZIP 28411, with the FMR providing a reliable guideline for rent levels that align closely with market demands. However, the slightly higher ZORI might make traditional market rentals more attractive, depending on individual property costs and management preferences.
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.