Average Rent in Northampton County, NC↑ Rents rising 7.9% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 17,212
Market Overview
Northampton County, NC has rental prices ranging from $777/month to $1,412/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $782/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $47,935/year, spending $782/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Northampton County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,026/month, Northampton County ranks #43 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — pricier than 67% of all US cities in our data.
The Northampton County Rental Market
The Northampton County, NC area has a population of about 17,212 and 27% 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 Northampton County, NC have risen by $75/month (7.9%) over the past year, from $951 to $1,026. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Northampton County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,280. The local median household income of $47,935 exceeds that threshold by $16,655, making Northampton County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Northampton County, NC has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, 0.9 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Northampton County, NC Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in NClargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home 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 Northampton County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Northampton County data
Buying breaks even after 4 years — worth it if you stay 4+ years.
Living in Northampton County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Northampton CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Northampton County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Northampton CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NC Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections