Average Rent in Washington County, NC↑ Rents rising 8.6% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in NC
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 10,905
Market Overview
Washington County, NC has rental prices ranging from $704/month to $1,377/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 $41,750/year, spending $709/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Washington County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $930/month, Washington 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 Washington County Rental Market
The Washington County, NC area has a population of about 10,905 and 31% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Washington 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 Washington 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 $41,750 exceeds that threshold by $13,390, making Washington County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Washington County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Washington 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 Washington CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Washington County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Washington CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NC Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections