Location: Charleston-North Charleston, SC | Metro: Charleston-North Charleston, 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 | $1,390 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,450 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,315 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,450 | $192,827 | 0.75% | D |
| 2BR | $1,580 | $222,670 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $1,960 | $343,952 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,250 | $468,675 | 0.48% | F |
| 5BR | $2,610 | $434,320 | 0.6% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 29405, North Charleston, SC, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,380. This figure represents the maximum amount that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will pay to cover a tenant's rent under the Section 8 housing program. It is important to note that this is not the rent you can charge your tenants; it is the reimbursement limit for the government.
In comparison, the local median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in North Charleston is approximately $1,877, according to the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI). This suggests that the FMR is lower than the average market rent, which could mean that landlords might need to subsidize part of the rent themselves if they wish to participate in the Section 8 program.
The renter share in North Charleston is 49.4%, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on renting their homes. This high percentage signals strong demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. However, landlords must be prepared to manage the expectations and requirements of both tenants and the government program.
The typical acquisition cost for a property in this area is around $310,504. This figure should be considered when evaluating the potential return on investment for a Section 8 rental property. While the initial cost might seem high, the steady stream of government payments can provide a reliable income source, especially given the high demand for rentals.
Before deciding to take on a Section 8 rental, ensure that your property meets all the necessary standards for habitability and safety as required by HUD. This includes passing regular inspections to maintain compliance with the program. Once these conditions are met, you can confidently enter the Section 8 market knowing that your property will be well-utilized and that you have a solid understanding of the financial parameters involved.
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.