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 | $1,270 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,950 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,366 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,862 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,005 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,480 | $168,306 | 0.88% | C |
| 3BR | $1,950 | $232,225 | 0.84% | C |
| 4BR | $2,040 | $312,213 | 0.65% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The dynamics of the ZIP code 34479, located in Ocala, FL, reveal a market in motion. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1300 for fiscal year 2024 and a market rent of $1,488 as indicated by ZORI, there's a clear gap between government-set rent standards and what the market demands. This suggests that the rental market is slightly above average, indicating a steady demand for rental properties.
A price-cut share of 0.3% points to a competitive but not oversaturated market. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect to maintain their asking prices without significant concessions. The days on market (DOM) figure of 48 days further supports this, showing that properties are moving relatively quickly once listed, a sign of active buying interest.
The median home value of $238,638 provides insight into the overall affordability of the area. This figure is indicative of a middle-class neighborhood, offering opportunities for both homeownership and investment.
The 25.6% renter share highlights a substantial portion of the population choosing to rent rather than buy. This long-term trend implies ongoing housing pressure, as a significant number of residents prefer or need to remain renters. It also signals a reliable demand for rental units, which is beneficial for landlords and investors looking to capitalize on the rental market's stability.
In summary, the market in ZIP 34479 leans towards a scenario where demand is robust enough to keep the rental market active and home values stable. Investors should focus on the rental segment, given the strong renter presence and the slight premium over FMR, indicating a healthy balance between supply and demand.
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.