Location: Marshall County, AL | Metro: Marshall County, AL
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 | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $740 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $970 | $157,265 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $1,340 | $229,092 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,350 | $299,443 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 35950 in Albertville, AL, is suitable for inclusion in a Section 8 portfolio strategy as a cash-flow anchor. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 estimated at $840, and a market rent of $854, the spread is minimal, indicating that properties in this area can be rented close to the FMR without significant loss. This makes it an attractive option for landlords who aim to ensure steady cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 35950 is $209,573, which is relatively low compared to many other markets. This suggests that the cost of acquiring rental properties in this area is manageable, allowing for a higher return on investment when rented out at the market rate. Additionally, the 30.0% renter share indicates a stable demand for rentals, supporting the viability of cash-flow-focused investments.
With a median income of $57,329, the area also aligns well with the income limits for Section 8 eligibility. This ensures a consistent pool of potential tenants who can benefit from the program, further stabilizing the cash flow. Although the 0.2% price-cut share and N/A-day Days on Market (DOM) suggest limited appreciation potential, the primary focus for this ZIP code should be on generating reliable rental income rather than capital appreciation.
In summary, ZIP 35950 in Albertville, AL, serves best as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio due to its close alignment between FMR and market rent, manageable property acquisition costs, and a stable tenant base. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can confidently expect to maintain positive cash flow from properties in this area.
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.