Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL | Metro: Fort Lauderdale, 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 | $2,640 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,480 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $6,368 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $7,132 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $7,703 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $8,088 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $3,480 | $428,447 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $4,760 | $636,846 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $5,490 | $831,906 | 0.66% | D |
| 5BR | $6,368 | $1,312,502 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 33327, located in Weston, FL, stands at $159,388. At first glance, this suggests that households could potentially cover the market rate rent of $4,679 per month, known as the ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index). However, when considering the Federal Market Rent (FMR) standard of $3,150 for the fiscal year 2024, the disparity between market rates and government-subsidized housing becomes evident.
A household earning the median income in this area would find it challenging to afford the market rate rent. To put this into perspective, the median income translates to approximately $13,282 per month, before taxes and other expenses. A rent of $4,679 represents over 35% of this monthly income, which is a significant portion for most families.
With 22.1% of the population renting in a total population of 23,203, the competition among landlords is moderate but exists. The affordability gap between the ZORI and the FMR means that some tenants might be inclined towards seeking housing assistance through vouchers, especially if they have limited financial resources.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: while the market rate rent is high, the competition for tenants who can pay such rates is also present. Voucher holders provide a steady, though lower, rental income compared to market rates. Landlords should consider the balance between accepting vouchers, which guarantee timely payments, and pursuing higher rents from those who can afford the ZORI. This decision should be based on the specific tenant mix and local demand dynamics.
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.