Average Rent in Cleveland County, NC↑ Rents rising 8.6% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in NC
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 100,170
Market Overview
Cleveland County, NC has rental prices ranging from $705/month to $1,397/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 $55,769/year, spending $709/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Cleveland County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $930/month, Cleveland 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 Cleveland County Rental Market
The Cleveland County, NC area has a population of about 100,170 and 29% 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 $55,769 exceeds that threshold by $27,409, making Cleveland County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Cleveland County, NC has an unemployment rate of 4.4%, 0.5 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Cleveland County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Cleveland 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 Cleveland CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Cleveland County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Cleveland CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋NC Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections