Average Rent in Harnett County, NC↓ Rents falling 29.8% YoY🔻 2nd cheapest in NC
HUD FY2021 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 136,503
Market Overview
Harnett County, NC has rental prices ranging from $595/month to $1,368/month in 2021, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $599/month — 57% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $69,012/year, spending $599/month on a 1-bedroom represents 10% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Harnett County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $790/month, Harnett County ranks #86 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — more affordable than 97% of all US cities in our data.
The Harnett County Rental Market
The Harnett County, NC area has a population of about 136,503 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 Harnett County, NC have fallen by $336/month (29.8%) over the past year, from $1,126 to $790. This rate of decrease is significant and reflects softening demand or increased inventory in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Harnett County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $23,960. The local median household income of $69,012 exceeds that threshold by $45,052, making Harnett County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Harnett County, NC has an unemployment rate of 4.1%, 0.2 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 FY2021Is Harnett 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 Harnett County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Harnett County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Harnett 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 Harnett CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Harnett County ranks statewide
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