Average Rent in Burlington, NC

Burlington, NC has rental prices ranging from $869/month to $1,806/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,099/month — 21% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $64,445/year, spending $1,099/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Burlington Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,217/month, Burlington ranks #18 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — pricier than 83% of all US cities in our data.

The Burlington Rental Market

The Burlington, NC area has a population of about 174,286 and 34% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Burlington, NC have risen by $2/month (0.2%) over the past year, from $1,215 to $1,217. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Burlington, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $43,960. The local median household income of $64,445 exceeds that threshold by $20,485, making Burlington relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Burlington, NC is $259,803, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 17.8. With a break-even horizon of approximately 18 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Is Burlington, NC Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Burlington?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Burlington

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.