Location: Columbus County, NC | Metro: Columbus County, NC
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,020 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 28432 reveals a market that offers a balance between yield and stability, making it neither purely a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market nor a steady-cashflow zone. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,130, which stands above the market rent of $950. This suggests a potential for higher rental income in the area, especially if properties can be positioned to capture the higher end of the rental spectrum.
However, the median home value of $198,531 indicates a middle-ground scenario where the investment cost is significant but not prohibitive. When comparing the FMR against the median home value, the yield appears reasonable but not excessively high, suggesting that while there is room for profit, it is not a speculative or highly volatile market.
The stability axis is less clear-cut. With only 16.3% of residents being renters, the demand for rental properties is relatively low. This could translate into higher vacancy rates and greater competition among landlords, which might put downward pressure on rental prices. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to assess how quickly properties are typically rented out, leaving some uncertainty around the speed of cash flow generation.
On a positive note, the median household income of $90,815 provides a solid economic foundation for the area. This figure supports the idea that residents have the financial means to sustain rental payments, contributing to overall market stability. However, the low percentage of renters implies that the majority of the population owns their homes, potentially limiting the growth of the rental market.
In conclusion, ZIP 28432 presents an opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking a moderate balance between yield and stability. The higher FMR compared to the market rent and the substantial median household income support a decent rental income potential. Yet, the relatively low proportion of renters and the missing DOM data indicate a need for careful management and possibly a focus on long-term, rather than speculative, investments.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.