Location: Orangeburg County, 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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,299 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,483 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,607 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,460 | $278,532 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 29436 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1380. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 rentals in your area, meaning it's the maximum amount that the Housing Choice Voucher program will pay towards rent for a unit of a given size. It does not represent the total rent you can charge your tenant; rather, it sets an upper limit on the subsidy portion.
In ZIP 29436, there is a strong demand for affordable housing, with approximately 9.5% of renters relying on some form of housing assistance. This indicates that nearly one out of every ten renters might be interested in a Section 8 property, providing a significant pool of potential tenants.
The median home value in this ZIP code is around $227,086, which gives you an idea of the typical acquisition cost for properties. While this number is indicative of the general real estate market, it's important to note that rental properties can vary widely in price depending on condition, location, and other factors.
When considering a Section 8 rental, it's crucial to verify that the property meets all local housing quality standards (HQS). These standards ensure that the rental unit is safe, decent, and sanitary. Failure to meet these requirements can result in non-payment or termination of the lease agreement. Therefore, conducting a thorough inspection and making necessary repairs before applying for a Section 8 tenant is essential.
Remember, while the FMR of $1380 provides a guideline for the voucher program's maximum contribution, you can still charge a higher rent. However, the difference must be paid by the tenant directly, which could impact their ability to afford living in your property. Ensure you understand the balance between the voucher payment and the tenant's contribution to make informed decisions about pricing.
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.