Location: Tallapoosa County, AL | Metro: Clay County, AL
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,659 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,107 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 36255, located in Tallapoosa County, AL, offers a strategic fit within a Section 8 portfolio due to its characteristics as a cash-flow anchor. The median fair market rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $810. This figure provides a benchmark for rental income stability in the area.
The median home value in ZIP 36255 stands at $184,019, indicating a relatively affordable housing market. While there is no specific data on market rents or days on market (DOM), the alignment of the FMR with potential market rents suggests that this ZIP code can serve as a reliable source of steady cash flow for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The lack of significant appreciation potential, as evidenced by the N/A% price-cut share and N/A-day DOM, means that investors should focus on the rental income rather than capital gains.
The 10.9% renter share indicates that a portion of the population relies on rental properties, which aligns well with the Section 8 program's goal of providing affordable housing. Additionally, the median income of $84,792 supports the idea that tenants participating in the Section 8 program would be able to cover their portion of the rent, thereby reducing the risk of non-payment.
In conclusion, ZIP 36255 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The guaranteed rental income from the $810 FMR, combined with the stable median home value of $184,019, ensures consistent returns without the volatility associated with appreciation plays. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can rely on this ZIP code to provide a solid foundation for their investment strategies.
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.