Location: Marion County, SC | Metro: Dillon County, SC
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 | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $890 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,589 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,922 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $890 | $104,826 | 0.85% | C |
| 3BR | $1,140 | $171,390 | 0.67% | D |
| 4BR | $1,370 | $259,923 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 29571 (Marion, SC) hinges on its financial metrics, which include the Fair Market Rent (FMR), median home value, percentage of renters, and median household income. Let's break down these factors to determine the market's character.
On the yield axis, Marion stands out due to the disparity between the FMR and the market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $900, whereas the market rent is lower at $677. This suggests that properties in Marion could potentially offer higher yields when leased through Section 8 programs compared to being rented on the open market. However, the median home value of $146,753 provides a baseline for investment costs, indicating that while the potential for higher rental income exists, it must be balanced against the initial investment required.
Moving to the stability axis, we see that 42.2% of residents are renters, which is a significant portion but not overwhelmingly high. The median household income of $37,395 suggests that there is a reasonable level of financial stability among tenants, who are likely to be able to meet their rent obligations. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) means that we cannot assess the speed at which properties are rented, which can impact the overall stability and cash flow predictability of the market.
Based on these figures, Marion, SC, does not fit neatly into either a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market or a steady-cashflow zone. Instead, it appears to be a market that offers a balance between the two. The potential for higher yields through Section 8 rentals is present, but the relatively stable median income of the area suggests that tenants are likely to have a steady source of income. Therefore, Marion can be classified as a market that leans towards providing moderate yield with moderate stability, suitable for investors looking for a blend of both without the extreme risks or rewards associated with pure flip markets or steady cashflow zones.
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.