Location: Levy County, FL | Metro: Levy County, 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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $990 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,508 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,689 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,824 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,915 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,220 | $276,758 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 housing analysis for ZIP code 32626 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $910 for fiscal year 2024 and the actual market rent reported at $851 according to the Census ACS. This discrepancy amounts to a $59 difference, representing a 6.9% premium over the market rate.
This premium makes voucher tenants an attractive option for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to maximize their rental yields. The higher FMR ensures that landlords can receive a rent subsidy that bridges the gap between market rates and what voucher recipients can afford, effectively allowing them to charge a rate above the current market average without increasing the financial burden on tenants.
In the broader context of ZIP 32626, where 23.3% of residents are renters, the median home value stands at $277,819, and the median income is $60,433, the opportunity to leverage the Section 8 program becomes even more compelling. Given these conditions, the ability to secure a higher rental income through voucher programs can significantly enhance the profitability of rental properties in this area.
However, it's important to note that while the FMR exceeds the market rent, the cost of managing housing voucher tenants should be carefully considered. Landlords must adhere to specific regulations and undergo periodic inspections to maintain eligibility for the program. These factors can influence the overall management costs and the time required to manage such properties.
To summarize, the $59 premium or 6.9% increase over market rent in ZIP 32626 makes Section 8 vouchers a strategic tool for increasing rental yields. Despite the administrative requirements, the potential for enhanced returns aligns well with the local economic conditions and the high percentage of renters in the area.
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.