Location: Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL | Metro: Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, 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 | $1,090 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,355 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,638 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,849 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,991 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,310 | $205,513 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $1,670 | $321,992 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $2,030 | $411,476 | 0.49% | F |
| 5BR | $2,355 | $412,340 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 33525, Dade City, FL, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,360. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge a tenant participating in the Section 8 program, which is not your typical market rent but rather a payment standard designed to ensure affordability for low-income families. For context, the local Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) stands at $1,906, indicating that market rents are significantly higher than the Section 8 payment standard.
The 26.0% share of renters in Dade City suggests a moderate demand for rental properties, including those under the Section 8 program. This percentage implies that roughly one in every four residents are looking for affordable housing options. The average home value in the area is around $347,532, reflecting the overall real estate costs in the region. However, it's important to note that this figure pertains to the total cost of acquiring a property, not necessarily the rent you will receive through Section 8.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental property, verify that the property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards ensure that the rental unit is safe, decent, and sanitary, which is a requirement for participation in the program. This step is crucial because failing to meet HQS can result in penalties and loss of eligibility for Section 8 payments.
In summary, while the FMR of $1,360 sets a limit on what you can charge for a Section 8 tenant, the local ZORI of $1,906 indicates that market rents are higher. With a 26.0% renter share, there is a steady demand for rental units, and the average home value of $347,532 gives insight into the cost of entering the market. Ensure your property meets the necessary HQS to avoid any issues and to secure consistent income from the program.
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.