Real Estate Investing in Wilson, North Carolina
Everything the listing leaves out — vacancy, rent trend, cap rate, landlord climate. All free.
Should you buy in Wilson, NC? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
For Homebuyers
GOOD FIT
Grade B (70/100)
Solid choice — values are growing steadily and the market is stable enough to buy with confidence.
For Investors
MIXED
3.0 / 5
(52/100)
A middle-of-the-road market. Workable, but the best opportunities may be nearby ZIPs rather than this one.
Risks to Know
1 flag
- Elevated vacancy: 11.5% vacancy may signal weakening demand.
What’s happening in Wilson, NC?
Click any question — our AI will research it live from the web and show you sources.
🏦 30-yr Fixed Rate:
6.76%
as of Sep 10
Source: Freddie Mac PMMS
Avg Investability
★★★★★
Avg Home Value
$205,438
Avg Monthly Rent
$1,260
ZIP Codes
3
Market Trends — Wilson, NC
Home Value History
Rent History
Local Pulse Report
AI-researched developments and news for Wilson, NC. Updated on demand as visitors ask.
Growth & development in Wilson, NC Updated 135 days ago
Wilson, NC is experiencing significant economic growth with major investments in life sciences and infrastructure improvements.
Opportunities
- Johnson & Johnson announced a second multi-billion dollar facility in Wilson County in January 2026, creating up to 500 new jobs. — This expands employment opportunities and strengthens the local life sciences industry. NC Commerce
- In October 2024, Johnson & Johnson began construction on a $2 billion pharmaceutical manufacturing campus, creating 420 jobs. — This provides substantial new employment and boosts the local economy. Wilson EDC
- Pender Crossing, an 84-unit affordable housing project, opened in Fall 2025, providing income-tied rental units. — This increases affordable housing options and supports community development. Woda Cooper Companies
- Wilson's $4.2 million pickleball facility, the largest in eastern North Carolina, was unveiled in April 2025. — This adds a significant recreational amenity for residents. City of Wilson
- Amtrak completed a $4 million upgrade to the G.K. Butterfield Station in December 2024, improving accessibility and the platform. — This enhances public transportation infrastructure and accessibility for travelers. Amtrak
Concerns
- The Raleigh Road Parkway improvement project, aiming to address projected overcapacity by 2035, has future dates for right-of-way acquisition and construction yet to be determined. — Delays in this project could lead to continued traffic congestion and safety concerns. NCDOT Engagement Hub
Bottom line: Wilson is experiencing robust growth, particularly in the life sciences sector, with significant job creation and infrastructure improvements underway.
Local news & events in Wilson, NC Updated 135 days ago
Wilson, NC has seen significant economic development with new manufacturing jobs, alongside ongoing community events and persistent concerns about crime and the impact of new Medicaid work requirements.
Opportunities
- Johnson & Johnson has broken ground on a new $2 billion manufacturing campus in Wilson, the first of four planned U.S. facilities. — This investment is expected to create nearly 1,400 biopharma jobs, offering employment opportunities at salaries approximately twice the county average. WRAL
- Wilson County received an incentives package worth up to $5.2 million for Idexx Laboratories, which plans to hire 275 people at a new $147 million veterinary equipment plant. — This brings new jobs and economic growth to the area, expanding employment options for residents. WRAL
- The City of Wilson's Waters of Wilson spring clean-up in April 2026 saw 75 volunteers remove over 1,600 pounds of litter from 13 miles of waterways and public spaces. — This community effort improves local environmental quality and beautifies shared spaces, enhancing the quality of life for residents. WilsonNC.org
- Wilson will open a new 26-court pickleball complex in late fall 2024 at the J. Burt Gillette Athletic Complex. — This provides new recreational opportunities for residents, promoting active lifestyles and community engagement. WRAL
- Wilson County's violent crime rate decreased by 12% in the past year (as of August 2025). — A reduction in violent crime enhances public safety and improves the overall sense of security for residents. NC PRO
Concerns
- Wilson's overall crime rate is 29 per one thousand residents, one of the highest in America compared to communities of all sizes. — High crime rates can restrict residents' freedom and safety, leading to increased personal costs and reduced quality of life. NeighborhoodScout
- A specific neighborhood, 1600 South Park, has an overall crime index 95% above the national average, with rape being the highest concern. — Elevated crime in specific areas creates significant safety concerns and can limit residents' mobility and peace of mind. DoorProfit
- New Medicaid work requirements are projected to increase costs for Wilson County by approximately $866,000 in the first eight months of the fiscal year. — Increased county costs for social services may lead to reduced funding for other community programs or potential tax increases for residents. NC Health News
- The new Medicaid work requirements remove the option for farm workers to attest to their hours, posing a challenge for the many agricultural workers in Wilson County who are often paid off the books. — This change could create barriers to healthcare access for a significant portion of the county's workforce, potentially leading to unconsented health costs. NC Health News
- Wilson County experienced strong storms and intense winds in March 2025, causing damage to homes and uprooting trees. — Natural disasters impose unconsented costs on residents through property damage and disruption, requiring resources for recovery. WRAL
Bottom line: Wilson is experiencing economic growth and active community engagement, but persistent high crime rates and new social service challenges remain significant concerns for residents.
Schools in Wilson, NC Updated 135 days ago
Wilson County Schools has seen significant growth in student enrollment and academic performance, leading to new facility projects and program expansions, alongside ongoing efforts to manage increasing student populations.
Opportunities
- Wilson County Schools achieved its highest state ranking ever in overall proficiency for the 2024-2025 school year, placing 34th out of 115 districts. — This indicates improved academic outcomes and a higher quality of education for students. Wilson County Schools
- The district broke ground on the new Frederick Douglass Elementary School in December 2025, a $26.58 million facility designed to accommodate 400-500 students with modern learning spaces. — This expands educational capacity and provides updated facilities with dedicated spaces for art, music, and STEM. NC Construction News
- Wilson County Schools is seeking design-build services for a new Wells-Hearne Elementary School project, budgeted at up to $44.1 million, to replace existing schools and accommodate approximately 1,000 students. — This project aims to enhance opportunities for students and staff by providing a new, larger, and more efficient educational facility. HigherGov
- The 2025 Summer Accelerator Program offers free mini-courses for students entering grades 6-9, providing opportunities to meet industry leaders, gain real-world experience, and attend field trips. — This program expands educational choices and career exploration for middle school students at no cost to families. Wilson County Schools
- Wilson County Schools offers a 3-year accelerated pathway for high school graduation as an alternative to the traditional 4-year pathway. — This provides students with increased flexibility and choice in their academic progression. Wilson County Schools
Concerns
- Student enrollment in Wilson County Schools is rising faster than anticipated, with several schools operating near or above critical capacity levels as of November 2025. — This creates challenges with overcrowding and may strain existing resources and facilities. YouTube (Fox 17 News)
- The Wilson County Board of Education approved a policy allowing school administrators to search students' cell phones for evidence of misbehavior. — This may be perceived as a restriction on student privacy and personal autonomy. WRAL
Bottom line: Wilson County Schools is actively addressing rapid enrollment growth through new construction and program development, while also achieving notable academic improvements.
Civic & policy in Wilson, NC Updated 135 days ago
Wilson County and City of Wilson have seen recent budget approvals with no property tax rate increases, alongside significant property revaluations and ongoing discussions about land use and development.
Opportunities
- Wilson County Commissioners unanimously passed a $137.4 million budget for FY2025/2026 with no property tax rate increase. — This maintains stable property tax costs for residents, allowing for predictable financial planning. Wilson County News List
- The City of Wilson's proposed 2025-26 budget also includes no increase to the city's property tax rate. — This helps residents avoid increased property tax burdens from the city government. Wilson, NC News List
- Wilson City Council is continuing major projects like the downtown stadium, expected to be complete before the 2026 baseball season, and the Wilson Mall redevelopment. — These projects can enhance local amenities, attract visitors, and potentially stimulate economic activity. Wilson, NC News List
- An amendment to the Wilson County Unified Development Ordinance regarding water and sewer extension requirements was proposed for approval due to recent growth. — This could facilitate necessary infrastructure expansion to support ongoing development and population growth. Wilson County Planning Board
Concerns
- Wilson County conducted a property revaluation in 2024, the first since 2016, leading to an average 52% increase in property values. — While tax rates may be adjusted, increased valuations can still lead to higher overall property tax bills for some residents. Wilson County Tax Department
- A Wilson County board denied a rezoning request for 185.4 acres from agricultural residential to a higher-density residential, citing inconsistency with the comprehensive land use plan. — This decision may limit the availability of new housing options and potentially impact housing affordability. Citizen Portal
- The City of Wilson's proposed 2025-26 budget includes a $1 monthly increase for garbage/recycling fees and a 3% increase in permitting/inspection fees. — These fee increases represent additional costs for residents and those undertaking construction or renovation projects. Wilson, NC News List
- New state Medicaid work requirements, effective April 30, 2026, could increase costs for Wilson County's DSS by nearly 10% and potentially cause vulnerable populations to lose coverage. — This state decision could strain county resources and restrict access to essential healthcare for some residents. NC Health News
Bottom line: Wilson is experiencing growth, with local governments working to manage development and maintain stable tax rates amidst rising property values and new state regulations.
AI-generated from public web sources. Always verify with official records. Not financial, legal, or investment advice.
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Best ZIP codes in Wilson, NC
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Landlord Ground Truth
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Avg Home Value
$205,438
Avg Monthly Rent
$1,260
1% Rule
✗ Below
Landlord Friendly (NC)
★★★★☆
☀️
Warm Market
— Wilson, NC metro
0
Days to pending
8.9%
Listings with price cuts
0.0%
Sale-to-list ratio
📅 Data as of August 29, 2026 — updated weekly
🎓 Colleges & Universities in Wilson
2 Colleges
3,010 Students
763 Off-Campus Renters
Investor Insight: With 763 students living off-campus, Wilson has substantial rental demand from the college population — typically stable, lease-renewing tenants.
ZIP Codes in Wilson, NC
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View PlansFrequently Asked Questions About Wilson, NC
What is the smart move for investors in Wilson, NC?
Most investors in Wilson, NC run a careful cash-flow rentals with hands-on management strategy. It aligns with the 3.0/5 investability profile and the market fundamentals.
What is the typical renter like in Wilson, NC?
Tenant quality in Wilson, NC ranks as solid. Landlords generally report predictable occupancy at market rents of $1,260/mo.
Is Wilson, NC a good market for buy-and-hold investors?
Investors tracking Wilson, NC will find a 3.0/5 rating supported by $205K median home values and $1,260/mo rents. That profile suits long-term holders targeting stable returns.
Is Wilson, NC suited for a house hack?
The a challenging house-hack environment in Wilson, NC reflects the rent-to-price spread. Expect meaningful PITI offset at market rents.
Is Wilson, NC good for landlords?
For rental operators, Wilson, NC rates as landlord-friendly. The regulatory environment standard buy-and-hold operations.
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