Location: Hardee County, FL | Metro: Lakeland-Winter Haven, 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 | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,110 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,622 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,937 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,172 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,331 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,350 | $166,176 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $1,830 | $231,738 | 0.79% | D |
| 4BR | $2,260 | $327,509 | 0.69% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 33841, located in Fort Meade, FL, within the Hardee County, FL metro area, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 33841 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1050, which is significantly higher than the local market rent of $885. This $165 spread between the FMR and the market rent ensures a steady and reliable cash flow for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The median home value in ZIP 33841 stands at $230,321. While this figure indicates that property values are not exceptionally high, the focus here is on the guaranteed rental income provided by the Section 8 program. The program's rental rates are designed to cover the cost of renting modest housing in the local market, thus providing a cushion against market fluctuations.
Although the ZIP code does not present significant opportunities for appreciation, with a low 0.3% price-cut share and no data available for days on market (DOM), it still offers a stable investment option. Landlords can rely on the consistent income stream without the risk associated with volatile markets or rapid price changes.
The ZIP code also has a median income of $39,384, reflecting the economic conditions of the area. With a 31.4% renter share, there is a notable demand for rental properties, which supports the viability of the Section 8 program in this region. However, the primary strategic advantage lies in the cash flow stability provided by the guaranteed rental rates.
In conclusion, ZIP 33841 should be considered a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio due to the favorable spread between the FMR and market rent. This stability is crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to secure a predictable income source amidst fluctuating market conditions.
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.