Location: Orangeburg County, SC | Metro: Orangeburg County, SC
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $890 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,160 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,346 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,508 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,629 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 29133 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Firstly, tenant turnover is likely to be higher due to the significant gap between the market rent of $722 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $900 for fiscal year 2026. This difference can lead to tenants seeking better deals, increasing the likelihood of frequent moves and leaving landlords with the burden of finding new tenants.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. With the days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A, it's difficult to predict how long properties might remain vacant. A prolonged vacancy can result in lost rental income and increased costs for property management and maintenance.
Deferred maintenance is also a risk factor. The typical home value is not available, but the median household income of $36,987 suggests that residents may struggle to afford major repairs or upgrades. Landlords must be prepared to invest in regular maintenance to keep properties up to standard without relying on tenants' financial contributions.
Despite these risks, the high renter share of 31.3% in ZIP 29133 is a positive indicator. High renter density often translates into a greater demand for rental housing, including units that accept Section 8 vouchers. This demand can help mitigate the risks associated with vacancy and turnover, ensuring a steady stream of potential tenants.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.