Location: Orangeburg County, SC | Metro: Orangeburg County, SC
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 | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,020 | $188,063 | 0.54% | F |
| 3BR | $1,220 | $268,526 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $1,340 | $328,921 | 0.41% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 29142, Santee, South Carolina, is set at $910 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, which is the maximum amount that the government will pay to landlords for eligible tenants. It's important to note that this is not the total rent you would receive; it's the benchmark for government reimbursement.
In comparison, the average rent in Santee is slightly higher at $963 according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS) data. This indicates that landlords participating in Section 8 can expect to receive a subsidy close to, but potentially less than, the market rate.
The demand for rentals in Santee is strong, with 15.7% of residents being renters. This high percentage suggests a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing, making it a viable option for those considering a Section 8 rental property.
If you're looking to acquire a rental property in this area, the median home value is around $242,171. This figure gives you an idea of the typical price point for homes in Santee, which can help in assessing whether the potential income from a Section 8 tenant justifies the investment.
Before proceeding with your first Section 8 rental in Santee, ensure that the property meets all local housing quality standards, known as the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards cover essential aspects such as structural integrity, heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. Compliance with HQS is mandatory for participation in the Section 8 program, and failure to meet these criteria can result in penalties or removal from the program.
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.