Location: Ocala, FL | Metro: Ocala, FL MSA
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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,995 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,234 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,534 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,060 | $84,189 | 1.26% | A |
| 2BR | $1,240 | $165,224 | 0.75% | D |
| 3BR | $1,620 | $251,159 | 0.65% | D |
| 4BR | $1,720 | $327,207 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In Ocklawaha, Florida (ZIP 32179), the real estate market presents a nuanced picture for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The median home value stands at $243,819, indicating a relatively affordable market compared to other parts of the state. This affordability is further supported by the fact that only 0.3% of listings have seen price reductions, suggesting that sellers maintain strong pricing power. The absence of a reported median days on market (DOM) implies either a robust sales pace or an unusually low volume of transactions, both of which can be interpreted positively for property values.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,170, while the actual market rent (ZORI) currently averages around $1,615. This significant gap between the two figures suggests a healthy rental market, with demand outstripping government-subsidized rates. For landlords, this means potential for steady rental income, especially if they target tenants outside the Section 8 program.
Long-term investors should consider the implications of these dynamics. The current setup points towards a stable appreciation thesis, driven by the consistent pricing power and the positive rental market. However, the lack of detailed DOM data introduces some uncertainty regarding the speed of appreciation. Given the strong seller's market indicated by the low percentage of price reductions and the healthy rental income potential, it is reasonable to expect modest appreciation over the next 12-24 months, contingent upon broader economic conditions and local employment trends.
To summarize, the combination of a moderate median home value, minimal price reductions, and a robust rental market signals a favorable environment for maintaining property values and generating rental income. Long-term investors can expect a solid foundation for appreciation, though the rate will depend on future economic factors.
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.