Location: Clarendon County, SC | Metro: Sumter, SC MSA
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 | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,763 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,133 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,210 | $174,402 | 0.69% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 29125, located in Clarendon County, South Carolina, reveals a favorable environment for those seeking rental income. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1080 for fiscal year 2024, significantly exceeds the market rent of $808 as reported by the Census ACS. This means that voucher tenants can provide a positive cash flow at the FMR rate, making it an attractive option for landlords.
To further understand the dynamics, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $130,464. Using this figure, we can calculate a rent-to-price ratio that provides insight into the comparative affordability of renting versus buying. At the FMR rate of $1080, the annual rent would be approximately $12,960, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of roughly 10%. This indicates that rental income generated by voucher tenants is relatively high compared to the cost of owning a property in the area, enhancing the appeal of investing in rental properties.
The current data does not provide a specific median Days on Market (DOM) or percentage of homes experiencing price cuts, but these metrics typically play a role in assessing the broader real estate market health. In the absence of these figures, the primary focus remains on the robust cash flow potential offered by Section 8 vouchers. Given the significant gap between the HUD FMR and the market rent, landlords can expect to generate a consistent and positive cash flow without needing to rely on premium units.
The strongest angle for investors in ZIP 29125 is undoubtedly the cash flow. With voucher rates well above the market rent, landlords can secure steady income streams while also potentially benefiting from the stability provided by government-backed tenants. This combination makes cash flow the most compelling reason for Section 8 investors to consider this ZIP code.
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.