Location: Duplin County, NC | Metro: Jacksonville, NC MSA
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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,498 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,623 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,470 | $219,742 | 0.67% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 28521 is part of a rural neighborhood characterized by a relatively small population of 1,593 residents. Only 2.5% of these residents are renters, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied area. The median income in this region stands at $47,813, which is modest compared to urban areas but still reflective of a stable community. Median home values in ZIP 28521 are set at $215,234, suggesting a middle-class residential environment.
Moving into the economic dynamics of renting, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 28521 in fiscal year 2024 is established at $1,270. This figure represents the government's benchmark for determining the maximum allowable rent for housing assistance under the Section 8 program. However, the lack of available market rent data means that it's challenging to directly compare the FMR against local rental prices, potentially indicating a less competitive market or a scarcity of rental properties.
Given the characteristics of ZIP 28521, it would likely appeal more to a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The low percentage of renters suggests limited demand for rental properties, making it less suitable for active property management strategies aimed at increasing occupancy rates or improving property values through renovations. Instead, landlords who are interested in steady, long-term returns without significant tenant turnover or the need for extensive property improvements might find this ZIP code attractive. The modest median income aligns well with the FMR, ensuring that the Section 8 program can effectively support tenants in affording their homes, thus providing a reliable source of rental income for landlords.
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.