Average Rent in Surry County, NC↑ Rents rising 8.6% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in NC
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 71,407
Market Overview
Surry County, NC has rental prices ranging from $704/month to $1,489/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $709/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,095/year, spending $709/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Surry County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $930/month, Surry 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 Surry County Rental Market
The Surry County, NC area has a population of about 71,407 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 Surry 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 Surry County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,360. The local median household income of $56,095 exceeds that threshold by $27,735, making Surry County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Surry County, NC has an unemployment rate of 3.5%, 0.4 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 FY2025Is Surry 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 Surry County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Surry County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Surry 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 Surry CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Surry County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Surry CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NC Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections