Location: Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL | Metro: Homosassa Springs, 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 | $1,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,210 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,800 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,073 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,210 | $135,045 | 0.9% | C |
| 2BR | $1,410 | $193,876 | 0.73% | D |
| 3BR | $1,800 | $352,671 | 0.51% | F |
| 4BR | $2,190 | $523,240 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $2,540 | $649,506 | 0.39% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 34601, located in Brooksville, Florida, has a population of 24,115 residents, with 27.6% being renters. This indicates a significant portion of the community relies on rental housing, making it a viable market for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in attracting Section 8 tenants.
The median household income in this area is $60,440, which provides a benchmark for understanding the financial capacity of potential tenants. A typical market rent of $1,250 consumes approximately 25% of the median monthly income, assuming a 12-month distribution of the annual median income. This percentage aligns closely with federal guidelines that suggest housing costs should not exceed 30% of a household's income.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 34601 is set at $1,340 for FY 2024, slightly above the current market rent. The FMR serves as a reference point for determining the maximum amount of rent assistance that can be paid through the Section 8 program. Given the FMR is higher than the typical rent, landlords might find that voucher holders have some flexibility in covering additional costs, such as utilities or security deposits, if negotiated appropriately.
In terms of tenant profiles, landlords in Brooksville should expect a mix of individuals and families who rely on Section 8 vouchers to manage their housing expenses. These tenants are likely to be economically disadvantaged, possibly including those who are elderly, disabled, or working but earning below the median income. The presence of a substantial renter population suggests there is deep voucher demand, making it a prime location for properties participating in the Section 8 program.
Given the economic conditions and the proportion of renters, landlords can anticipate a steady stream of qualified applicants seeking housing within the parameters of their vouchers. However, the competition for these tenants will depend on the number of properties accepting vouchers and the overall supply of affordable housing units in the area.
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.