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 | $1,070 |
| 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 | $244,181 | 0.6% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 29471, located within Orangeburg County, SC, presents a unique profile when compared against other ZIP codes in the same county. The Family Monthly Rent (FMR) for 29471 is set at $1380 for fiscal year 2024, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $891. This indicates that while government-subsidized renters may have higher budget allocations, the overall rental market is less expensive.
The median home value in ZIP 29471 stands at $209,450. This figure suggests that the area is neither among the most affordable nor the most expensive neighborhoods in Orangeburg County. It places 29471 in a mid-tier position relative to its peers, offering a balance between affordability and property value.
A significant point of interest is the 18.2% renter share in 29471. This percentage is higher than what might be considered typical for ZIP codes in Orangeburg County, indicating a substantial portion of the population relies on renting. High renter share can be indicative of a strong presence of subsidized housing, such as Section 8 properties, making it potentially attractive for landlords looking to tap into a steady stream of government-backed tenants.
To determine if 29471 qualifies as a value pocket, mid-tier neighborhood, or premium sub-market, we must consider the interplay between FMR, market rent, home values, and renter share. With an FMR significantly above the market rent but a median home value that is moderate, 29471 appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood with potential as a Section 8 sweet spot due to its high renter share. This combination suggests that landlords could benefit from a relatively stable tenant base, especially those interested in government subsidy programs.
However, the higher FMR compared to market rent also implies that there may be opportunities for landlords to charge slightly above average rents, particularly for properties that meet or exceed the quality standards required by Section 8. The moderate home values suggest that the area is accessible to a broad range of buyers and investors, making it a balanced choice within the metro.
In conclusion, ZIP 29471 is positioned as a mid-tier neighborhood within Orangeburg County, SC. Its characteristics make it a promising location for landlords and investors seeking to engage with a higher proportion of renters, including those participating in Section 8 programs, without facing the highest competition in terms of property prices.
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.