Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 33063 - 2027
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL | Metro: Fort Lauderdale, FL HUD Metro FMR Area
Investment Score for ZIP 33063
B
Monthly Rent (2BR)
$2,290
Median Price (2BR)
$196,492
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates
| Unit Size |
Monthly FMR |
| Studio | $1,740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,130 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,188 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,691 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,066 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,319 |
Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms |
Monthly FMR |
Median Price |
1% Rule |
Grade |
| 1BR |
$1,880 |
$98,139 |
1.92% |
A+ |
| 2BR |
$2,290 |
$196,492 |
1.17% |
B |
| 3BR |
$3,130 |
$462,787 |
0.68% |
D |
| 4BR |
$3,610 |
$561,276 |
0.64% |
D |
Demographics & Housing Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Median Household Income
$62,918
### Market Analysis for ZIP Code 33063 (Margate, FL)
#### Section 8 Voucher Dynamics
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 33063 is set at $2350 for a two-bedroom unit, which represents 44.8% of the median household income of $62,918. This FMR is significantly lower than the actual rent prices in the area. For instance, the Zillow median price for a two-bedroom home is $199,179, which translates to a monthly mortgage payment of approximately $950 based on a 4% interest rate and a 30-year fixed mortgage. However, the actual rental market price for a two-bedroom unit is much higher, with the Zillow median rental price being around $7.1 times the FMR. This means that a typical two-bedroom rental unit in Margate would cost around $16,730 annually ($1394 monthly), far exceeding the FMR of $2350 per month.
Given these dynamics, Section 8 voucher holders face significant constraints. The FMR is designed to ensure that housing costs do not exceed 30% of a household’s income, but in Margate, the actual rent prices are substantially higher than the FMR. This makes it challenging for voucher holders to find suitable housing within their budget, especially considering that only 26.3% of the population are renters.
#### Affordability & Renter Profile
Margate has a population of 55,466, with a median household income of $62,918. The occupancy rate is relatively high at 91.9%, indicating a tight market where most available units are occupied. Given that only 26.3% of the population are renters, the rental market is likely competitive, with landlords having the upper hand in setting prices.
The affordability of housing for renters is a concern. With the FMR for a two-bedroom unit being $2350, which is 44.8% of the median income, and the actual rental price being around $1394, renters are paying a substantial portion of their income towards rent. This suggests that the market is tight and may be somewhat oversupplied with higher-end rentals, leaving limited options for those relying on Section 8 vouchers.
#### Investor Angle
From an investor perspective, the ZIP code 33063 presents mixed opportunities. While the FMR is set at $2350 for a two-bedroom unit, the actual rental market price is much higher, at around $1394 per month. This indicates that properties rented at the FMR level could potentially generate positive cash flow, especially if financed with a mortgage payment below the FMR.
However, the investment grade is influenced by the tight market conditions and the limited number of renters who can afford the higher actual rental prices. Investors should consider the risk of vacancy rates increasing if they rely solely on Section 8 tenants, as the FMR is significantly lower than the market rate. Additionally, the high occupancy rate suggests that there is strong demand for rental properties, but the challenge lies in finding properties that can be rented at or near the FMR without compromising on quality.
#### Specific Actionable Insights
1. **Focus on Lower-Rent Properties**: Investors should focus on acquiring properties that can be rented at or near the FMR levels. This includes smaller units like one-bedroom or studio apartments, which have FMRs of $1910 and $1750 respectively. These units are more likely to attract Section 8 tenants, given the tight market and the limited availability of affordable housing.
2. **Consider Renovation Projects**: Given the high actual rental prices, investors might consider purchasing older properties at lower prices and renovating them to meet the FMR requirements. This strategy can help in attracting Section 8 tenants while also positioning the property for potential resale or long-term rental at higher market rates.
3. **Diversify Tenant Base**: To mitigate the risk of relying solely on Section 8 tenants, investors should consider diversifying their tenant base. This can include targeting low-income families who may not qualify for Section 8 but still require affordable housing. Such a strategy can help in stabilizing cash flow and reducing the impact of any changes in government funding or policies.
#### Bottom Line
For Section 8-focused investors, the recommendation for ZIP code 33063 is **Hold**. While there are opportunities to acquire and manage properties that cater to Section 8 tenants, the tight market and high actual rental prices present challenges. Investors should carefully evaluate the potential for positive cash flow and consider strategies to diversify their tenant base. The high occupancy rate and limited number of renters suggest that the market is competitive, making it essential to focus on properties that can be rented at or near the FMR levels to ensure stability and profitability.
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.