Location: Beaufort County, SC | Metro: Beaufort 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 | $1,490 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,550 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,842 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,438 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,610 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,550 | $358,527 | 0.43% | F |
| 2BR | $1,690 | $315,656 | 0.54% | F |
| 3BR | $2,010 | $412,027 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $2,450 | $551,969 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $2,842 | $735,039 | 0.39% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1450 for ZIP 29902 (Beaufort, SC), landlords can expect to see a significant alignment between government standards and local rental markets. The Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) indicates a market rent of $1,823, suggesting that properties meeting or exceeding Section 8 requirements can command a premium. At a median home value of $418,919, the area reflects a robust housing market where investment opportunities abound. However, with 36.0% of residents being renters, competition for rental units is considerable. Landlords must be prepared to offer competitive amenities and maintenance to attract tenants. The median income of $69,752 provides insight into the financial capacity of potential tenants, ensuring they can afford rents above the FMR but still below the market rate. A Days on Market (DOM) average of 81 days implies that while there is demand for rentals, properties may take some time to fill. The low price-cut share of 0.2% indicates that once listed, properties are likely to sell or rent at their asking price, minimizing negotiation risks.
Investors should note that the gap between the $1450 FMR and the $1,823 ZORI presents an opportunity for those willing to cater to non-subsidized tenants. However, the strong rental market and high median home values make Beaufort, SC, an attractive location for Section 8 participation. Given the data, landlords can confidently participate in the Section 8 program knowing that the $1450 FMR is well-supported by the local economic conditions. The steady demand for rentals and the ability to maintain listing prices without significant cuts further solidify the viability of Section 8 in this market. For small-portfolio investors, the combination of these factors means that Beaufort offers a stable and potentially lucrative investment environment.
Section 8 Verdict: Viable and stable for landlords and investors in Beaufort, SC.
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.