Location: Port St. Lucie, FL | Metro: Port St. Lucie, 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 | $1,510 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,520 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,480 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,004 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,633 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,830 | $257,659 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $2,480 | $346,357 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $2,590 | $423,531 | 0.61% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 34981, located in Fort Pierce, Florida, hinges on its financial metrics related to rental yields and market stability. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 34981 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,490, which is higher than the market rent of $1,304. This suggests that there is potential for higher rental yields when securing tenants through government programs like Section 8, compared to market-rate rentals.
The median home value in the area is $366,149, indicating a relatively stable housing market. However, the percentage of renters is quite high at 35.1%, which can influence the stability of cash flow. Despite the lack of data on the average number of days on market (DOM), the median household income of $71,136 provides insight into the economic health of the area. This figure is moderate and suggests that while there is a significant portion of the population renting, the overall income level supports a degree of stability.
Given these factors, ZIP 34981 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone. The higher FMR compared to the market rent indicates a favorable environment for landlords participating in the Section 8 program, as they can potentially secure higher rents through government subsidies. Additionally, the median home value and median income suggest a balanced market where both homeowners and renters coexist. Although the high percentage of renters might introduce some volatility, the economic indicators point to a stable enough area to support consistent cash flow for landlords.
To summarize, the yield potential from the Section 8 program, combined with the median home values and incomes, positions ZIP 34981 as a zone that offers steady cash flow rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. Landlords should expect a reasonable return on investment with manageable risk.
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.