Location: DeSoto County, FL | Metro: North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota, 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 | $960 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,110 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,471 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,768 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,989 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,138 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,350 | $184,773 | 0.73% | D |
| 3BR | $1,790 | $259,998 | 0.69% | D |
| 4BR | $2,130 | $330,834 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 cap rate analysis for ZIP code 34266 in Arcadia, Florida, provides a clear picture of potential returns based on the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and market rent data. Using the annualized 2BR FMR of $1830 for FY 2024, the implied gross yield for a property in this area would be approximately 0.75%. This calculation is derived from dividing the annual rent ($1830) by the median home value ($243,485).
In contrast, using the market rent figure of $932 from the Census ACS, the implied gross yield drops significantly to about 0.38%. This lower yield is calculated similarly by taking the annual market rent ($932 x 12 months) and dividing it by the median home value.
Given the 32.3% renter density in the area, the market rent scenario appears more realistic. The N/A-day Days on Market (DOM) indicates that there is insufficient data to determine the average time properties take to rent out, which could suggest either a highly competitive market or a lack of comprehensive rental activity tracking.
The disparity between the FMR and market rent yields highlights the importance of understanding local rental dynamics. While the FMR offers a higher gross yield, the actual market conditions, as reflected by the lower market rent, present a more conservative and likely accurate return expectation for investors.
To summarize, the Section 8 program in ZIP 34266 can offer a gross yield of 0.75%, while the typical market conditions provide a gross yield of only 0.38%. Given the high proportion of renters and the uncertainty around DOM, investors should consider the market rent figure as a baseline for their investment calculations.
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.