Location: Columbus County, NC | Metro: Bladen County, NC
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,543 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,728 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,866 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,959 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 28438 presents a dynamic rental market, characterized by a clear gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $930 for the fiscal year 2026 and the actual market rent of $704 based on Census ACS data. This discrepancy suggests that demand may be slightly lagging behind supply, as evidenced by the lower market rent compared to the FMR. However, the lack of specific data regarding the percentage of price cuts and days on the market (DOM) means we cannot definitively conclude the direction of the supply-demand balance.
A significant indicator of long-term housing pressure is the renter share, which stands at 25.7%. This figure implies a notable segment of the population relies on rental housing, potentially exerting continuous pressure on the rental market. The median home value of $159,773 provides a benchmark for homeownership costs, but without historical context, it's challenging to assess whether this value is rising or falling relative to income levels or other economic factors.
The market in ZIP 28438 appears to be in flux, with rental prices below the FMR indicating some level of flexibility in the market. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should monitor local economic trends closely, particularly changes in employment, population growth, and migration patterns, which could influence both the demand for rentals and the overall stability of home values.
The presence of a substantial renter population underscores the importance of maintaining competitive rental offerings. For investors, understanding the underlying reasons for the current market conditions—such as affordability, job opportunities, or lifestyle preferences—is crucial for making informed decisions about property management and investment strategies.
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.