Location: Gainesville, FL | Metro: Gainesville, FL 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 | $1,140 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,180 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,134 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,581 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,710 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,400 | $223,178 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $1,720 | $312,579 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $1,840 | $412,455 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $2,134 | $532,805 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 32615 (Alachua, FL) hinges on its financial metrics, particularly the Federal Market Rent (FMR) and the median home value, along with the demographic indicators such as the percentage of renters and average household income.
On the yield axis, the FMR of $1,440 for fiscal year 2024 is notably higher than the market rent of $1,267. This suggests that properties in this ZIP code can potentially generate above-market rental yields when participating in Section 8 programs. The median home value of $332,470 provides a benchmark for property investment costs. Given these figures, the potential for a high-yield investment exists due to the premium on Section 8 rents over market rates.
Moving to the stability axis, the ZIP code has a significant portion of renters at 20.7%. While the days on market (DOM) figure is not available, the average household income of $85,701 indicates a moderate level of economic stability among residents. This income level supports the notion that tenants are likely to have consistent payment capabilities, which is crucial for maintaining steady cash flow.
Combining both axes, ZIP 32615 appears to be a market that offers a balance between yield and stability. It is not a high-yield/low-stability 'flip-style' market, as the income levels suggest a reasonable degree of tenant reliability. However, it also isn't purely a steady-cashflow zone, since the Section 8 FMR exceeds the market rent, indicating opportunities for enhanced rental income. Therefore, Alachua presents itself as an attractive option for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking a blend of solid returns and dependable occupancy rates.
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.