Where is the cheapest rent in North Carolina?

The cheapest rent in North Carolina is in Greensboro, NC, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,330/month and a 1-bedroom $1,213/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Charlotte ($1,686), Durham ($1,711), Raleigh ($1,713).

How much can I save renting in North Carolina's cheapest cities?

By choosing North Carolina's cheapest city over the state average, you could save $325/month or $3,900/year on rent.

What income do I need to rent in North Carolina's cheapest cities?

To afford the cheapest 2BR in North Carolina at $1,330/month, you need approximately $53,200/year based on the 30% of income guideline.

Cheapest Cities to Rent in North Carolina (2026)

The cheapest rent in North Carolina is in Greensboro, NC, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,330/mo and a 1-bedroom $1,213/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $325/mo below the North Carolina average 2BR of $1,655. The table below ranks all 5 of the cheapest cities to rent in North Carolina.

$1,330

Cheapest 2BR

$1,655

State Average 2BR

$325

Monthly Savings

$3,900

Yearly Savings

Top 5 Cheapest Cities in North Carolina

Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)

Rank	City	Studio	1 Bed	2 Bed	3 Bed	Income Needed
#1	Greensboro, NC	$1,159	$1,213	$1,330	$1,703	$53,200/yr
#2	Charlotte, NC	$1,469	$1,538	$1,686	$2,076	$67,440/yr
#3	Durham, NC	$1,417	$1,507	$1,711	$2,117	$68,440/yr
#4	Raleigh, NC	$1,485	$1,510	$1,713	$2,105	$68,520/yr
#5	Asheville, NC	$1,436	$1,674	$1,835	$2,231	$73,400/yr

Why These North Carolina Cities Are Affordable

North Carolina offers moderate affordability with significant variation between metros. Charlotte and Raleigh are pricier but still below Northeast averages, while smaller cities provide excellent value.

Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 90
Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums

Income Requirements

Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in North Carolina's cheapest cities:

#1: Greensboro

2BR: $1,330/mo requires $53,200/year

#2: Charlotte

2BR: $1,686/mo requires $67,440/year

#3: Durham

2BR: $1,711/mo requires $68,440/year

How North Carolina's Cheapest Cities Compare

vs State Average

-$325/mo

cheaper than North Carolina average

vs National Average

-$70/mo

cheaper than US average

Cost of Living Index

Below national average (100)

What to Consider Before Moving

Best For

✓Tech professionals
✓Finance workers
✓Those seeking mild climate
✓Outdoor enthusiasts

Considerations

•Hurricane risk on coast
•Rapid growth changing communities
•Car-dependent