Location: Darlington County, SC | Metro: Darlington County, SC HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,100 | $80,678 | 1.36% | A |
| 3BR | $1,310 | $170,623 | 0.77% | D |
| 4BR | $1,530 | $257,047 | 0.6% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Darlington, SC, located in the heart of South Carolina's Pee Dee region, is a community that offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. The area is known for its strong sense of community and affordable living conditions, making it attractive for both residents and investors.
The data points indicate that while there is a notable demand for rental properties, the actual market rents are somewhat below the FMR, which may present opportunities for investors to offer quality rentals at competitive prices. The median home value suggests that the area is generally affordable, potentially attracting first-time buyers and renters alike. However, the median income being relatively low might limit the upward potential for rental rates and property appreciation. Overall, Darlington presents a stable investment opportunity for those looking to enter a market with a strong rental base and reasonable property values.
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.