Average Rent in Clay County, NC↑ Rents rising 9.7% YoY

Clay County, NC has rental prices ranging from $856/month to $1,533/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $921/month — 34% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,645/year, spending $921/month on a 1-bedroom represents 21% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Clay County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,020/month, Clay County ranks #46 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — pricier than 67% of all US cities in our data.

The Clay County Rental Market

The Clay County, NC area has a population of about 11,391 and 20% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Clay County, NC have risen by $90/month (9.7%) over the past year, from $930 to $1,020. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Clay County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $36,840. The local median household income of $53,645 exceeds that threshold by $16,805, making Clay County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Clay County, NC has an unemployment rate of 3.8%, 0.1 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.

Is Clay County, NC Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Clay County?

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

Living in Clay County

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