Average Rent in Rutherford County, NC↑ Rents rising 8.6% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in NC
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 64,850
Market Overview
Rutherford County, NC has rental prices ranging from $803/month to $1,442/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $807/month — 42% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $49,771/year, spending $807/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Rutherford County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $930/month, Rutherford County ranks #84 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — more affordable than 61% of all US cities in our data.
The Rutherford County Rental Market
The Rutherford County, NC area has a population of about 64,850 and 26% 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 Rutherford County, NC have risen by $74/month (8.6%) over the past year, from $856 to $930. 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 Rutherford County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $32,280. The local median household income of $49,771 exceeds that threshold by $17,491, making Rutherford County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Rutherford County, NC has an unemployment rate of 4.4%, 0.5 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 Rutherford 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 Rutherford County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Rutherford County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Rutherford 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 Rutherford CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Rutherford County ranks statewide
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