Location: Hamilton County, FL | Metro: Hamilton County, FL
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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $870 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,462 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,637 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,768 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $950 | $129,813 | 0.73% | D |
| 3BR | $1,220 | $194,390 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $1,260 | $271,770 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis in ZIP code 32052, specifically Jasper, FL, is centered around the significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR stands at $1,000, while the market rent is reported at $729 according to the Census ACS. This discrepancy amounts to a $271 difference, representing a 37.1% gap in favor of the FMR.
This scenario makes Jasper, FL a prime location for a yield play strategy. Landlords can secure a higher rental income by participating in the Section 8 program, which pays the difference between the tenant's contribution and the FMR. The FMR exceeds the market rent, ensuring that landlords receive a premium above what they would typically charge in the open market. Given that only 18.6% of residents are renters, there is a lower competition for rental properties, making it easier for landlords to fill units with voucher holders who are guaranteed to pay the full FMR.
The median home value in Jasper, FL is $180,226, indicating that homeownership is a significant part of the local economy. However, the median income of $52,103 suggests that many residents may struggle to afford market-rate rents without assistance. This economic backdrop supports the viability of the Section 8 program in the area, as it provides a stable source of income for landlords and affordable housing options for low-income families.
For small-portfolio investors, the opportunity lies in leveraging this gap to achieve higher returns on investment. By accepting Section 8 tenants, landlords can command rents closer to the FMR, which is set above the average market rate. This strategy not only increases the cash flow but also mitigates the risk of vacancy in an area where the rental market is less saturated compared to other regions.
In conclusion, the gap between the FMR and market rent in ZIP 32052 presents a clear opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors to maximize their yields through the Section 8 program. With a 37.1% premium over market rates, the potential for increased profitability is substantial, especially when considering the economic realities of Jasper, FL.
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.