House Hacking Investing in Raleigh, NC
Data-driven house hacking analysis for Raleigh, NC — score breakdown, key investment metrics, and how it compares to other markets.
Last updated: May 2026
Score Breakdown
Key Metrics for House Hacking
Median Price
$380,000
FHA 3.5% down: $13,300
Median Rent
$1,700/mo
Per-unit rental income
Vacancy Rate
7.5%
Healthy
Pop. Growth
+15.0%
5-year trend
House Hacking Investment Thesis
Raleigh Research Triangle is one of the strongest job markets in the US with tech, biotech, and university employment. Low vacancy and high income support premium rents — a growth-first market.
How Raleigh Compares
| Rank | City | House Hack Score | Cap Rate | Median Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #14 | Indianapolis, IN | 5.1 | 8.1% | $175,000 |
| #15 | Oklahoma City, OK | 5.1 | 7.7% | $175,000 |
| #16 | Louisville, KY | 5.1 | 7.3% | $195,000 |
| #17 | Raleigh, NC | 5.1 | 5.1% | $380,000 |
| #18 | Charlotte, NC | 5.0 | 5.6% | $340,000 |
| #19 | Austin, TX | 5.0 | 4.3% | $450,000 |
| #20 | Kansas City, MO | 4.9 | 7.5% | $195,000 |
Showing markets ranked near Raleigh for this strategy.
Quick Math: Estimated Annual Return
Based on median market data. Your actual returns will vary based on specific property, financing, and management costs. Always run your own analysis before investing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the house hack score for Raleigh, NC?
Raleigh, NC scores 5.1 out of 10 on our house hack score, ranking #17 out of 52 markets we track. Weighted composite: affordable entry price (30%), rent-to-price ratio (25%), low vacancy (20%), population growth (15%), livability/income (10%). Scale 0–10.
Is Raleigh a good city for house hacking investing?
Raleigh, NC ranks #17 for house hacking investing — a solid mid-tier market with a score of 5.1/10. The median home price is $380,000 with a 5.1% average cap rate.
What is the average cap rate in Raleigh?
The average cap rate in Raleigh, NC is 5.1%. The median home price is $380,000 with a median monthly rent of $1,700, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of 0.45%.
What are the property taxes in Raleigh?
The effective property tax rate in Raleigh, NC is 0.80%. On a $380,000 property, that translates to approximately $3,040 per year in property taxes.
How does Raleigh compare to other house hacking markets?
Among our 52 tracked markets, Raleigh, NC ranks #17 for house hacking investing. It falls in the middle of the pack for this strategy.
Can I FHA-finance a house hack in Raleigh?
With a median home price of $380,000, most 2-4 unit properties in Raleigh, NC should fall within FHA loan limits. An FHA loan with 3.5% down would require approximately $13,300 as a down payment. Rental income from additional units (median $1,700/month each) can significantly offset your mortgage payment.
Run Your Own Numbers for Raleigh
Use our free calculators pre-filled with Raleigh, NC market data, or adjust the numbers for your specific deal.
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