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 | $1,410 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,420 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,807 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,396 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,566 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,420 | $92,245 | 1.54% | A+ |
| 2BR | $1,710 | $185,531 | 0.92% | C |
| 3BR | $2,320 | $309,544 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $2,420 | $407,993 | 0.59% | F |
| 5BR | $2,807 | $563,990 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 34982, located in Fort Pierce, Florida, presents an interesting scenario when it comes to housing affordability. The median income for a household in this area is $54,082, which contrasts sharply with the market rate rent of $1,821 per month (ZORI).
To put this into perspective, let's consider the federal voucher payment standard, which stands at $1370 per month for FY 2024. This means that households receiving vouchers can afford to pay significantly less than the market rate, creating a notable disparity between what the market demands and what is subsidized.
In a ZIP code with a population of 31,143, where 27.5% of residents are renters, the affordability gap is a critical issue. Landlords face a challenge in attracting tenants who can meet the market rate, especially when the majority of the renting population likely relies on government assistance to make ends meet.
The difference between the market rate ($1,821) and the voucher payment standard ($1370) indicates a significant shortfall for landlords who choose to accept vouchers. However, this also means that there is a segment of the rental market where cash-paying tenants willing to meet the higher market rates could provide a more stable income stream.
For landlords considering their strategy, the key takeaway is clear: accepting vouchers will likely mean lower rental income but can ensure consistent occupancy. On the other hand, focusing on cash-paying tenants might yield higher returns but requires a deeper understanding of the local economy and the ability to attract tenants with sufficient income to cover the higher costs.
In conclusion, while the market rate in ZIP 34982 exceeds what many households can afford based on their median income, landlords have strategic options. They must weigh the benefits of guaranteed occupancy through vouchers against the potential for higher rental income from cash-paying tenants.
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.