Location: Barnwell County, SC | Metro: Allendale County, SC
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $640 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $890 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,369 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,533 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,656 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,739 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 29836 is set at $900 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers, which means that landlords will receive up to $900 per month for a qualified unit. It's important to note that this is not the amount you can charge for rent; it's the maximum reimbursement from the Housing Choice Voucher program.
Comparing this to the local median rent, which is currently unavailable, the FMR serves as a guideline for what is considered a fair market rate for subsidized housing in this area. However, given the 12.1% share of renters in the area, there is a notable demand for affordable housing options. This suggests that if your property meets the criteria for Section 8 eligibility, you can expect a steady stream of potential tenants interested in using their vouchers.
When acquiring a property in ZIP 29836 with the intention of renting it through the Section 8 program, the acquisition cost information is also not available. Nonetheless, the FMR can still be used to gauge the potential profitability of such an investment. Landlords should ensure that the cost of ownership, including mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other expenses, does not exceed the FMR so as to maintain a positive cash flow.
A key consideration for landlords looking to accept Section 8 tenants is to verify that your property complies with the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards are designed to ensure that rental units are safe, decent, and sanitary. Before finalizing your decision, it's crucial to inspect your property and make any necessary repairs to meet these requirements. Doing so will help avoid delays in the leasing process and ensure that your property is eligible for the program.
In summary, while the FMR of $900 sets the maximum reimbursement for Section 8 vouchers, the local median rent and acquisition costs are not specified. With a 12.1% renter share indicating demand, and assuming your property meets HQS, Section 8 rentals can be a viable option for landlords and small-portfolio investors in ZIP 29836.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.