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 | $1,160 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,170 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,638 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,360 | $215,778 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $1,790 | $342,774 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,880 | $388,483 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP code 34481 in Ocala, FL, there are several factors that could present challenges for a first-time Section 8 landlord. Tenant turnover is likely to be higher due to the disparity between the market rent of $1,635 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for FY 2024 at $1,310. This difference can lead to tenants struggling to meet their rental obligations, increasing the likelihood of frequent turnovers.
Vacancy exposure is another significant concern, with an average Days on Market (DOM) of 77 days. This extended period before securing a tenant can result in lost rental income, impacting cash flow negatively. The typical home value in the area is around $279,035, which contrasts sharply with the median household income of $57,324. This gap suggests that many residents may be unable to afford market rents without assistance, leading to potential deferred maintenance issues if tenants cannot cover the costs of upkeep and repairs.
Despite these risks, the high renter share of 9.8% indicates a strong demand for rental properties, often translating into a higher number of tenants seeking housing assistance through Section 8 vouchers. This robust demand can mitigate some of the risks associated with vacancy and turnover, as landlords are more likely to find tenants who qualify for and utilize vouchers.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.