Average Rent in Sampson County, NC↑ Rents rising 8.6% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in NC
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 59,245
Market Overview
Sampson County, NC has rental prices ranging from $709/month to $1,337/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $797/month — 43% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,159/year, spending $797/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Sampson County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $930/month, Sampson 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 Sampson County Rental Market
The Sampson County, NC area has a population of about 59,245 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 Sampson 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 Sampson County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,880. The local median household income of $53,159 exceeds that threshold by $21,279, making Sampson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Sampson County, NC has an unemployment rate of 4.1%, 0.2 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 Sampson 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 Sampson County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Sampson County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Sampson 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 Sampson CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Sampson County ranks statewide
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📋NC Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections