Location: Ocala, FL | Metro: Ocala, 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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,995 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,234 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,534 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,240 | $110,675 | 1.12% | B |
| 3BR | $1,600 | $208,526 | 0.77% | D |
| 4BR | $1,720 | $309,778 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
To integrate ZIP 34475, located in Ocala, Florida, into a Section 8 portfolio strategy, one must consider several key factors including the Fair Market Rent (FMR), market rent, median home values, price-cut shares, days on market (DOM), and renter shares.
The ZIP code 34475 presents itself as a cash-flow anchor. The FMR for FY 2024 is set at $1020, which is notably lower than the market rent of $1,295. This difference means that landlords who rely on Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive a consistent, government-backed rental income that is below the market rate but still stable and predictable. The gap between the FMR and the market rent suggests a potential for higher cash flow from non-voucher tenants if the landlord chooses to diversify their tenant base. However, the primary role of ZIP 34475 in a Section 8 portfolio is to provide a reliable source of income, acting as an anchor during times of economic uncertainty.
The median home value in ZIP 34475 is $209,947, which is relatively low compared to other metropolitan areas. This makes it easier for landlords to acquire properties at a reasonable cost, thereby increasing the potential for positive cash flow when the rental income exceeds mortgage payments and maintenance costs. The low median income of $30,174 further supports the idea that this area is heavily reliant on affordable housing solutions such as Section 8, making it a prime location for landlords seeking steady, government-subsidized income.
ZIP 34475 does not present itself as a strong appreciation play given its 0.3% price-cut share and the lack of available data on days on market (DOM). This indicates a slow-moving real estate market with little pressure on property owners to reduce prices to attract buyers quickly. While there is potential for gradual appreciation over time, it is not likely to be a significant driver of returns in the short term.
Although the renter share of 48.9% could suggest some diversification opportunities, the median income figure implies that most renters would fall into the category eligible for Section 8 assistance. Therefore, while diversification is possible, it is not the primary characteristic of this ZIP code in the context of a Section 8 portfolio strategy.
In conclusion, ZIP 34475 should be considered primarily as a cash-flow anchor due to the spread between the FMR and market rent, along with the low median home value and income levels that support a high demand for subsidized housing.
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.