Location: Swain County, NC | Metro: Graham County, NC
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $910 | $223,447 | 0.41% | F |
| 2BR | $1,010 | $283,442 | 0.36% | F |
| 3BR | $1,290 | $342,388 | 0.38% | F |
| 4BR | $1,530 | $433,187 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Bryson City, NC, located in ZIP code 28713, is a small town with a total population of 8,425 residents. The town has a relatively low percentage of renters at 27.7%, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. However, the median household income stands at $50,882, which suggests that while not affluent, the area has a stable economic base. The median home value in Bryson City is $320,503, reflecting a modest housing market where properties are neither excessively expensive nor cheap.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $930, whereas the current market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $732. This discrepancy presents an opportunity for Section 8 investors who can leverage the higher FMR to secure government-subsidized rents above the local market rate, thus potentially increasing their cash flow and investment returns.
Given the characteristics of Bryson City, it is a suitable location for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For those looking for a passive investment strategy, the town's stable economic environment and the ability to collect rents based on the higher FMR make it a good fit. On the other hand, for active investors aiming to improve property values and rental rates, there is room for value addition given the modest median home value and income levels. Investors should consider the potential for property improvements and the demand for affordable housing in the area when deciding whether to pursue a hands-off or hands-on approach.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.