Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 12/25/2025
North Carolina’s rental market blends vibrant urban centers with scenic mountain towns, offering a diverse range of living options for professionals, students, and families alike. The state’s most active hubs—Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, and the charming college town of Chapel Hill—provide easy access to Fortune‑500 headquarters, renowned research universities, and a lively cultural scene. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Asheville’s Blue Ridge backdrop, while coastal residents enjoy the relaxed vibe of Wilmington and the Outer Banks, creating a rich tapestry of neighborhoods that cater to every lifestyle.
Rent trends reflect the state’s varied housing stock. Studio apartments typically sit in the $1300‑$1400 range, and one‑bedroom units often fall within the $1400‑$1500 bracket. Larger apartment families—two‑ and three‑bedroom units—generally command rents in the $1800‑$2100 range, with premium properties reaching the $1900 median for three bedrooms. For single‑family homes, studios and one‑bedroom houses are available around the $1000‑$1300 level, while three‑bedroom homes average near $2000 and four‑plus units trend toward the $2400‑$2500 range. These figures illustrate a balanced market where both apartments and houses offer competitive pricing across different bedroom configurations.
Renters in North Carolina benefit from a mix of modern amenities, historic districts, and easy access to transportation corridors. Proximity to major interstates, robust public transit in larger cities, and walkable downtowns make commuting straightforward. Seasonal events—from the Carolina Renaissance Festival to the Charlotte Food + Wine Festival—enhance community life, while the state’s acclaimed culinary scene, craft breweries, and outdoor recreation opportunities ensure a vibrant, well‑rounded rental experience.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $1,286 | $1,284 | $895 - $1,630 | $1,204 - $1,350 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $1,445 | $1,387 | $710 - $2,815 | $1,100 - $1,770 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,734 | $1,730 | $925 - $2,924 | $1,300 - $1,973 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $2,729 | $2,075 | $1,076 - $9,852 | $1,595 - $3,115 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $1,106 | $1,125 | $675 - $1,500 | $750 - $1,500 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $1,462 | $1,400 | $750 - $2,700 | $1,137 - $1,709 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $2,001 | $1,950 | $972 - $5,000 | $1,700 - $2,165 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $2,629 | $2,499 | $1,560 - $4,995 | $2,199 - $2,900 |
In the current period, the average rent in North Carolina was $1,286 for Studio, $1,423 for 1 Bedroom, $1,625 for 2 Bedroom, $2,062 for 3 Bedroom, and $2,585 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.