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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,659 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,107 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $101,685 | 1.01% | B |
| 3BR | $1,230 | $160,177 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Darlington County's ZIP code 29540 stands out with a population of 4,080 residents, where only 17.0% rent their homes, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied area. The median income in this ZIP code is $53,155, which is slightly above the national average, reflecting a middle-class community. The median home value of $151,308 is relatively low compared to other parts of South Carolina, making it an attractive option for both first-time buyers and investors.
When it comes to Section 8 housing, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 29540 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $910. This figure is higher than the market rent reported by the Census American Community Survey (ACS), which stands at $883. This suggests that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect a slight premium over the local market rate, which could help offset some of the administrative burdens associated with the program.
The data signature for ZIP 29540 indicates a stable environment. With a low percentage of renters and a modest median home value, the area is likely to experience steady demand rather than rapid changes. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should find this stability beneficial, as it reduces the risk of sudden shifts in the rental market or property values. The slight difference between the FMR and the actual market rent also supports the notion of a balanced market, where Section 8 vouchers can play a significant role without causing major disruptions.
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.