RentData

Average Rent in Macon County, NC Rents rising 6.2% YoY

HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 37,533

Data review: HUD FY2025Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Macon County, NC has rental prices ranging from $722/month to $1,426/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $894/month — 36% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,298/year, spending $894/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Macon County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,022/month, Macon County ranks #45 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — pricier than 67% of all US cities in our data.

The Macon County Rental Market

The Macon County, NC area has a population of about 37,533 and 24% 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 Macon County, NC have risen by $60/month (6.2%) over the past year, from $962 to $1,022. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Macon County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $35,760. The local median household income of $53,298 exceeds that threshold by $17,538, making Macon County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Macon County, NC has an unemployment rate of 3.6%, 0.3 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.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2025
Studio
$722
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$894
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,022
6.2% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,231
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,426
Average
🔔
Get Rent Alerts
Be notified when rents change in Macon County

Is Macon County, NC Affordable?

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

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$40,880/year
Local median income: $53,298
To buy a median home
/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,022/month and 20% down on a home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in NClargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Anson County$834$927$1,216$1,465
Charlotte$1,586$1,647$1,824$2,250
Camden County$982$990$1,129$1,582
Virginia Beach$1,475$1,483$1,696$2,361
Raleigh$1,533$1,592$1,763$2,192
Greensboro$999$1,039$1,150$1,463

Rent or Buy in Macon County?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Macon County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$1,022/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $1,022/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Macon County

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

Moving Cost Estimator

Estimate your moving costs based on FMCSA public mover data

Select your origin state to see the estimate

Estimates based on FMCSA average mover rates. Get at least 3 binding quotes from licensed movers. Protect your move →

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore More

🏘️Neighborhoods in Macon County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in Macon County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in NC

See how Macon County ranks statewide

⚖️Compare Macon County

Side-by-side rent & cost of living with any city

📋NC Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections