Location: Talladega County, AL | Metro: Talladega County, AL
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,702 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,838 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,930 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 35014 in Talladega County, AL, reveals several key points that are essential for landlords and small-portfolio investors considering investment in this area.
The first question to address is whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $830, while the current market rent based on Census ACS data stands at $735. This indicates that properties in ZIP 35014 can command rents below the FMR, suggesting a potential margin for affordability and competitiveness for tenants seeking housing assistance through Section 8 programs.
Regarding the affordability of property acquisition, the median home value in ZIP 35014 is $198,786. Although the average number of days on the market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that required price cuts are not available, the median home value provides a baseline for assessing the cost of entry into this market. It's important to note that without DOM and price-cut data, it's challenging to fully gauge the liquidity and negotiation dynamics of the local real estate market.
There is also a need to consider tenant demand. With a total population of 3,219 and a renter share of 15.4%, the pool of potential Section 8 tenants is limited but present. The small size of the population means that the number of renters may not be substantial enough to support a large portfolio, but it does suggest a viable niche market for smaller investments.
Verdict: The rent math in ZIP 35014 aligns favorably with Section 8 guidelines, offering a competitive edge over the higher FMR. Property acquisition is affordable at a median home value of $198,786, though the lack of DOM and price-cut data introduces some uncertainty regarding market conditions. Tenant demand is modest due to the low population and relatively small renter share, making it suitable for investors looking to manage a limited number of units. Overall, ZIP 35014 presents a niche opportunity for those willing to navigate its constraints and capitalize on the favorable rent-to-FMR ratio.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.