Durham, NC Rental Market
Durham is the anchor of Research Triangle Park — the largest research park in the United States — and home to Duke University, one of the country's premier academic medical centers. The biotech and life sciences sector draws a highly educated, high-earning workforce that sustains strong rental demand. Durham's revitalized downtown, featuring converted tobacco warehouses and a vibrant food scene, has attracted significant investment and a growing young professional population.
Get a rent estimate for an address in DurhamAverage Rent in Durham, NC
$1,520
per month · 2026-06
Market Score
Key Facts — Durham, NC Rental Market
- Average rent in Durham, NC:$1,520/mo
- Median rent:$1,398/mo
- Rent range:$750 – $3,350/mo
- Most common rental (2 bedrooms):$1,350/mo
- Active listings:1,400
- Avg days to lease:27 days
- Year-over-year change:+4.5%
- Median home value:$320,000
- Est. gross annual yield:5.7%
- Data as of:2026-06
Rent by Bedroom in Durham, NC
Average monthly rent for each bedroom type based on current active listings in Durham.
| Bedroom Type | Avg Rent/mo |
|---|---|
1 Bedroom | $1,100/mo |
2 Bedrooms | $1,350/mo |
3 Bedrooms | $1,700/mo |
4 Bedrooms | $2,100/mo |
5 Bedrooms | $2,400/mo |
Durham Rental Market Statistics
Key indicators from the current Durham, NC rental market.
1,400
Available now in Durham
27
From list to lease
$1.13
Average across listings
1,350 sq ft
Typical rental size
$750 – $3,350
Min to max active listings
+4.5%
Avg rent vs. prior year
Investing in Durham, NC Rental Properties
Estimated returns based on current market rents and median home values. Perform full due diligence before investing.
Median Home Value
$320,000
Typical purchase price in Durham
Est. Gross Annual Yield
5.7%
Before expenses & vacancy
Avg Monthly Income
$1,520
At average market rent
Gross yield = (avg rent × 12) ÷ median home value. Does not include expenses, financing, vacancies, or management fees. Analyze a specific property in Durham for a full cash-flow breakdown including all costs.
Durham, NC Rental Market FAQ
Common questions about renting and investing in Durham, NC.
What is the average rent in Durham, NC?
The average rent in Durham, NC is $1,520 per month as of 2026. One-bedroom apartments average $1,100/mo, two-bedrooms $1,350/mo, and three-bedroom homes $1,700/mo. The downtown Warehouse District and Trinity Park neighborhoods command premiums, while South Durham and Research Triangle Park-adjacent areas offer a wider range.
Is Durham, NC a good place to invest in rental property?
Durham is an excellent rental investment market with 4.5% year-over-year rent growth — the highest in our NC coverage — and a 5.7% estimated gross yield. Duke University Medical Center, Research Triangle Park, and a booming biotech sector provide a large, stable professional tenant base that supports long-term rent appreciation.
How does Duke University affect the Durham rental market?
Duke University employs over 40,000 people and enrolls thousands of graduate and professional students who prefer renting near campus. Duke Hospital is one of the largest medical employers in the state, generating steady demand from medical residents, fellows, and healthcare professionals. The university provides a durable demand floor that buffers the market during economic downturns.
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