Location: Talladega County, AL | Metro: Anniston-Oxford, AL 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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $870 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $151,977 | 0.72% | D |
| 3BR | $1,440 | $211,225 | 0.68% | D |
| 4BR | $1,450 | $326,052 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $1,682 | $446,924 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP 36203, encompassing Oxford, AL, presents a dynamic scenario where rental rates and price adjustments offer insights into the balance between supply and demand. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1030 for fiscal year 2024, closely aligns with the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) of $1,054. This near parity suggests that the rental market is stable and reflective of the broader economic conditions.
A key indicator of market health is the price-cut share, which stands at 0.2%. This figure is exceptionally low, implying that landlords and property owners are confident in their pricing strategies and that there isn't significant downward pressure on rents due to oversupply. While the days on market (DOM) is listed as N/A, the low price-cut share indicates that units are likely being rented without substantial negotiation, further supporting the idea of a balanced or slightly tight market.
The median home value in Oxford, AL, is $202,944. This relatively moderate valuation suggests that homeownership remains accessible to many residents, but it also highlights the importance of the rental market for those who cannot afford to buy or prefer renting. With a renter share of 26.5%, there is a notable segment of the population relying on rentals. This can be indicative of long-term housing pressure, as a significant portion of the community will continue to seek rental properties rather than purchasing homes. It also points towards a steady demand for rental properties, which could benefit landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to maintain occupancy rates and achieve stable returns.
The interplay between the rental market and homeownership in ZIP 36203 underscores a market where demand is robust enough to support rental rates close to the FMR. Landlords should remain vigilant about maintaining property quality and managing costs effectively to stay competitive in this market. Small-portfolio investors can find opportunities in both the rental and homeownership segments, given the accessibility of home values and the persistent rental demand.
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.