Location: Lee County, SC | Metro: Darlington County, SC HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $89,275 | 1.15% | B |
| 3BR | $1,220 | $151,500 | 0.81% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
910 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 29069, Lamar, SC, for fiscal year 2024. 868 represents the average market rent based on Census ACS data, indicating a slight premium landlords can charge above the market rate when participating in Section 8. The median home value in this area stands at 136,663, which is a key figure for assessing property values and potential investment opportunities. 22.7 percent of the population in Lamar, SC, are renters, highlighting the demand for rental properties in the region. With a median income of 48,393, tenants' eligibility for Section 8 is influenced by their ability to contribute 30-40% of their income towards rent. Despite the lack of specific data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares, the disparity between the FMR and market rent suggests a stable rental market where Section 8 participation could be financially viable. 910 is the maximum allowable rent for a two-bedroom apartment under Section 8, which covers more than the average market rent of 868, allowing landlords to receive fair compensation while ensuring affordability for tenants. Given the median home value and the local economic conditions, the potential for positive cash flow exists, especially considering the higher FMR compared to the average market rent. The 22.7 percent renter share points to a significant portion of the population relying on rentals, making it a strategic decision for landlords to consider Section 8 as part of their rental portfolio. 48,393 being the median income, landlords should expect tenants to contribute approximately 14,518 annually towards rent, aligning well with the financial parameters set by Section 8. In conclusion, the data suggests that Section 8 can be a reliable source of income for landlords in Lamar, SC, due to the alignment of FMR and market rents.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.