Rocky Mount, NC Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Rocky Mount, NC: What You Need to Know

Despite its name, Rocky Mount is neither rocky nor mountainous. The city in the northeastern part of North Carolina got its name from the rocky mounds and ridges in the area.

Things to Do in Rocky Mount, NC

Explore the great outdoors in Rocky Mount’s numerous walking and biking paths. The Tar River Trail along its namesake river links five city parks, including the 57-acre Battle Park, the city’s largest park, and Sunset Park. Battle Park has picnic shelters, gazebo, boat ramp, and fishing piers, while Sunset Park features a carousel, skate park, boat ramp, and tennis and basketball courts. Take in some art and culture at the Imperial Center for the Arts and Sciences, featuring the Arts Center, Children’s Museum, and the Community Theatre. 

Local History

Virginians settled in the area in the mid-1700s. In 1816, the name Rocky Mount was first used in the designation of its first post office. The arrival of the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad in 1840 spurred Rocky Mount’s development as a rail center. Its merger with the village of Rocky Mount Hills also helped its expansion. 

What is the Cost of Living in Rocky Mount, NC?

Rocky Mount’s cost of living rate and food costs are 4.4% and 14.8% higher than the national average, respectively – comparable to the Durham area. At least, housing costs are 18.6% lower than the national average, with median gross rent at $793. Residents in the Tar Heel State pay 5.25% in state income tax and 4.75% in base sales tax. Counties collect 2% to 2.75% in additional sales tax.

What are the Best Neighborhoods in Rocky Mount, NC?

Rocky Mount (population: 53,922) lies in both Edgecombe and Nash Counties. Residents praise their hometown’s excellent amenities and strategic location. It is within driving distance of beaches and mountains. A big segment of city residents (48%) are renters. Families with school-age children are drawn to the suburbs such as Mannings Township, Bailey Township, and Spring Hope. Public schools in those communities have higher rankings than schools in Rocky Mount.

Weather and Climate

Hurricane Floyd was one of the worst storms to hit North Carolina. On Sept. 16, 1999, Floyd barreled through North Carolina and South Carolina with wind gusts of at least 74 miles per hour and calamitous rainfall that led to flooding. In Rocky Mount, 18 inches of rain fell. In all, the hurricane’s death toll reached 36 in North Carolina and 57 across the United States. Total damage was estimated at about $6.5 billion.