Location: Columbus County, NC | Metro: Columbus 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 | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,589 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,922 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,240 | $219,003 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $1,370 | $309,710 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 28472 stands at $42,003, indicating a moderate economic environment where financial stability plays a crucial role for households. The market rate for rent, according to the Census ACS, is $845. This figure represents a significant portion of the average household's income, making it challenging for many residents to comfortably afford housing without financial strain.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) as set for metro areas in fiscal year 2026 is $940, which is higher than the current market rate. This suggests that the rental market in 28472 is slightly below the federal standard, potentially offering some relief to those who qualify for housing vouchers. However, it also means that landlords accepting vouchers might face a slight reduction in potential revenue compared to the market rate.
With 28.7% of the population being renters and a total population of 16,780, the demand for affordable housing is evident. The affordability gap between the median income and both the market and voucher rates implies strong competition among landlords. Landlords must carefully consider their pricing strategies to attract tenants while maintaining profitability.
For landlords, the decision to accept vouchers versus relying on cash-paying tenants should be informed by the local economic conditions and tenant preferences. Accepting vouchers can secure long-term, stable tenancy but comes with the trade-off of lower rent payments relative to the FMR. Cash-paying tenants might offer higher rents closer to the market rate, but securing them requires competitive pricing and amenities to stand out in a crowded rental market.
Takeaway: In ZIP code 28472, landlords have two primary options: catering to voucher holders for steady occupancy or targeting cash-paying tenants for higher rent. Given the median income and current market rate, landlords must balance between attracting tenants and ensuring sustainable 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.