Wilson is a budget-friendly market in the South with a small but investable metro of 50,000. At a 5.55% estimated cap rate, this is a solid market where rents of $1,380/mo lag behind home prices. With a median home price of $220,000 and steady population growth supports long-term rental demand, Wilson stands out as a market worth serious analysis for rental investors.
Market data powered by Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) and Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) · Updated Feb 2026
Wilson's 0.6% rent-to-price ratio is well below the 1% rule. At median prices of $220,000, the $1,380/mo rent produces only $1,017/mo in NOI. Investors here need to target below-median properties or pursue value-add strategies to make the numbers work.
At current rates, a 20% down conventional loan ($44K at 7%) would result in approximately $-153/mo cash flow — negative at median prices. Larger down payments, seller financing, or buying 15–25% below median are strategies to turn the numbers positive.
The 13.3x gross rent multiplier and 5.3% vacancy rate position Wilson as a value-oriented market. With annual appreciation at 3.2%, total returns (cash flow + equity growth) run approximately 8.7% before financing leverage.
Pre-filled with Wilson medians. Adjust to match a specific property.
Factor in financing to see your actual return on invested capital in Wilson.
Wilson, NC has a population of 50,000 and has been growing at 1.5% annually — above the national average, suggesting steady demand pressure on housing. The median home price of $220,000 paired with median rents of $1,380/mo produces an estimated cap rate of 5.55%.
Property taxes at 0.78% are well below the national average of ~1.1%, providing a meaningful cash flow advantage many investors overlook. The vacancy rate of 5.3% is moderate and within normal parameters for a healthy rental market.
At a price-to-income ratio of 3.8x, homes cost about 3.8 times the local median income of $58,267. This relatively affordable ratio suggests a deep pool of renters who find buying out of reach, supporting rental demand. Home values have appreciated at roughly 3.2% annually. Steady appreciation means total returns will be primarily cash flow-driven — the more sustainable model for long-term wealth building.
Bottom line: Wilson presents moderate opportunities. Cap rates near 5.55% mean deals need careful sourcing — look for value-add rehabs or emerging neighborhoods where rents are climbing.