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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,240 | $208,207 | 0.6% | F |
| 3BR | $1,600 | $364,215 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $1,720 | $465,776 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 32617, located in Anthony, FL, within the Ocala, FL MSA metro area, presents itself as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the favorable spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rents in the area. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR for a one-bedroom apartment in ZIP 32617 is set at $1020, while the market rent is slightly higher at $1,048. This minimal gap ensures that properties can be rented out at the market rate without significant adjustments, providing a steady and predictable cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 32617 stands at $359,004, which aligns well with the rental income potential. Given the market conditions, landlords can expect a reliable income stream with little risk of vacancy or non-payment. The slight premium of the market rent over the FMR indicates a healthy local economy where tenants can afford to pay a bit above the subsidized rate, further stabilizing the cash flow.
While the appreciation potential in ZIP 32617 is modest, with a 0.3% price-cut share and N/A-day Days on Market (DOM), the primary focus should be on the consistent returns rather than rapid capital gains. The low price-cut share suggests that homes in this area do not typically need to be discounted to sell, indicating stability in the housing market.
The diversification aspect of ZIP 32617 is also worth noting, with a 11.1% renter share and a median income of $66,667. This mix of renters and homeowners provides a balanced demographic, reducing the risk associated with a single type of tenant. However, the primary role of this ZIP code in a Section 8 portfolio should be seen as an anchor for cash flow, given the tight alignment between FMR and market rents.
In conclusion, ZIP 32617 serves best as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio. Its stable market conditions, close alignment of FMR and market rents, and moderate appreciation potential make it a solid choice for generating reliable income. Small-portfolio investors and landlords seeking a secure financial base will find ZIP 32617 a valuable addition to their investment strategy.
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.