Location: Talladega County, AL | Metro: Clay 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,404 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,572 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,698 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,783 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,210 | $220,075 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 36268 stands out due to its unique mix of characteristics that make it an interesting area for real estate analysis, particularly for those involved with Section 8 housing. With a population of 5,939 residents, only 13.7% of whom are renters, this ZIP code is primarily composed of homeowners. The median income in the area is $55,625, which is relatively modest compared to the median home value of $201,254, indicating that homeownership here might be a bit challenging for the average resident.
When it comes to Section 8 voucher economics, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 is set at $800 for the metro area, whereas the current market rent, based on Census ACS data, is $735. This means that landlords accepting vouchers in ZIP 36268 can expect slightly higher rents than the typical market rate, potentially making it a more attractive option for rental properties in this area.
The data signature of ZIP 36268 reads as stable. The low percentage of renters suggests that there is limited demand for rental properties overall, but for those who do rely on rentals, the slight premium offered by Section 8 vouchers could be a significant factor. Given the median home value far exceeds the median income, it's reasonable to assume that the area is not undergoing rapid gentrification or economic shifts that would typically characterize a transitional neighborhood. Instead, the stable conditions indicate a consistent environment where the impact of Section 8 vouchers is clear and predictable, offering landlords a reliable source of income above the standard market rate.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.