Average Rent in Dare County, NC↑ Rents rising 10.2% YoY🔺 7th priciest in NC
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 37,534
Market Overview
Dare County, NC has rental prices ranging from $1,090/month to $1,922/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,269/month — 9% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $81,214/year, spending $1,269/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Dare County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,411/month, Dare County ranks #7 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — pricier than 90% of all US cities in our data.
The Dare County Rental Market
The Dare County, NC area has a population of about 37,534 and 22% 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 Dare County, NC have risen by $131/month (10.2%) over the past year, from $1,280 to $1,411. 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 Dare County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $50,760. The local median household income of $81,214 exceeds that threshold by $30,454, making Dare County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Dare County, NC has an unemployment rate of 3.1%, 0.8 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 Dare 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 Dare County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Dare County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Dare 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 Dare CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Dare County ranks statewide
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