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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,090 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,190 | $200,668 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $268,778 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $1,770 | $346,790 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 29477, which encompasses Saint George, SC, stands at $53,894 per year. Given the market rate for rent is $824 per month, it becomes evident that a significant portion of the monthly income is dedicated to housing costs. This represents approximately 19.1% of the annual income, which is within the recommended range of not exceeding 30% of gross income for housing expenses.
However, the comparison with the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set by the Housing Choice Voucher program paints a different picture. The FMR for ZIP 29477 is $1,380 per month, significantly higher than the current market rate. This discrepancy highlights a notable affordability gap for renters, especially those relying on vouchers.
With 21.5% of the 7,176 residents being renters, landlords face a competitive market. The majority of these renters may find the $1,380 voucher amount attractive, potentially leading to increased demand for properties that accept vouchers.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear: while accepting vouchers may bring in tenants with guaranteed rental payments, the higher voucher rates could also attract more competition. Landlords must weigh the benefits of stable, government-backed income against the potential increase in tenant inquiries and competition from other property owners willing to accept higher voucher payments.
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.