Average Rent in Scotland County, NC↑ Rents rising 8.6% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in NC
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 34,353
Market Overview
Scotland County, NC has rental prices ranging from $788/month to $1,233/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $793/month — 43% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $43,500/year, spending $793/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Scotland County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $930/month, Scotland 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 Scotland County Rental Market
The Scotland County, NC area has a population of about 34,353 and 41% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Scotland 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 Scotland County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,720. The local median household income of $43,500 exceeds that threshold by $11,780, making Scotland County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Scotland County, NC has an unemployment rate of 4.9%, 1.0 percentage point 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 Scotland 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 Scotland County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Scotland County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Scotland 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore More
Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Scotland CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Scotland County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Scotland CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NC Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections