Location: Marion County, AL | Metro: Marion County, AL
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $640 |
| 1 Bedroom | $740 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
23.9% of the residents in ZIP code 35548 are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. This statistic is crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to understand the local demand. The $459 market rent figure, derived from Census ACS data, provides insight into what tenants are currently paying in the area. However, the $830 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 suggests that there is room for growth in rental prices. Landlords can leverage this information to adjust their rents closer to the FMR without pricing out potential tenants.
$43,958 is the median income for ZIP 35548, which is an essential factor when considering the financial stability of potential tenants. This figure should be used to gauge the ability of residents to pay higher rents if the market allows. Despite the lack of available data on median home values, days on market (DOM), and the percentage of homes needing price cuts, the disparity between the current market rent and the FMR indicates a favorable environment for rental properties. Investors should focus on the rental market rather than the purchase market until more data becomes available.
The Section 8 program offers another avenue for landlords to ensure steady rental income. With the FMR set at $830, landlords can participate in the program knowing they will receive a fixed amount that covers the majority of the rent. This can be particularly beneficial in areas where the median income is lower, as it ensures a reliable tenant pool.
Given the current data, the verdict for Section 8 participation in ZIP code 35548 is positive. The program aligns well with the local economic conditions and provides a stable source of income for landlords.
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.