Location: Pickens County, AL | Metro: Pickens County, AL HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,105 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 35481 presents a significant opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 tenants. With a population of 3,132, nearly one-quarter (24.9%) of residents are renters, indicating a substantial tenant pool that could be tapped into for rental properties. This percentage suggests that the area is indeed renter-heavy, which aligns well with the potential for deep voucher demand.
To understand the financial dynamics, let's examine the median household income, which stands at $45,207. The typical market rent of $400 per month represents approximately 9.7% of the median income, making it affordable for many residents. However, when compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $860, the current market rent is significantly lower, suggesting that there might be room for price increases if the demand for Section 8 vouchers is high.
The disparity between the FMR and the actual market rent points to an environment where Section 8 vouchers are likely to be highly sought after. Given that the median income is below the threshold for many voucher holders, landlords can expect a steady stream of applicants who rely on these vouchers to cover their rent. This tenant profile includes individuals and families who may have limited income but are still able to secure housing through government assistance.
A landlord in ZIP 35481 should anticipate a tenant base that heavily relies on Section 8 vouchers. These tenants will typically have their rent covered up to $860, which is more than double the current market rate of $400. Therefore, the area is conducive to those looking to leverage the voucher system to ensure consistent and stable rental income. The key for landlords will be to maintain compliance with HUD requirements and manage properties effectively to attract and retain voucher holders.
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.