Average Rent in Rockingham County, NC↑ Rents rising 11.5% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 91,585
Market Overview
Rockingham County, NC has rental prices ranging from $714/month to $1,499/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $793/month — 43% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $55,796/year, spending $793/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Rockingham County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,041/month, Rockingham County ranks #41 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in North Carolina — pricier than 69% of all US cities in our data.
The Rockingham County Rental Market
The Rockingham County, NC area has a population of about 91,585 and 28% 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 Rockingham County, NC have risen by $107/month (11.5%) over the past year, from $934 to $1,041. 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 Rockingham County, NC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,720. The local median household income of $55,796 exceeds that threshold by $24,076, making Rockingham County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Rockingham County, NC has an unemployment rate of 4.0%, 0.1 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 Rockingham 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 Rockingham County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Rockingham County data
Buying breaks even after 3 years — worth it if you stay 3+ years.
Living in Rockingham 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 Rockingham CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NCSee how Rockingham County ranks statewide
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