Location: Dale County, AL | Metro: Dale County, AL
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,260 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,310 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,680 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,002 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,242 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,404 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 36362, located within the Dale County, AL metro area, exhibits characteristics that suggest it could be considered a value pocket within its broader market context. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for this ZIP code stands at $1,160, which is notably lower than the market rent of $1,441. This discrepancy indicates that properties in 36362 offer a cost-effective option for renters compared to the average rental prices in the surrounding area.
The 100.0% renter share further emphasizes the strong demand for rental properties in this ZIP code. In contrast, the lack of available data on home values might imply that homeownership is less prevalent here, possibly due to economic factors or the specific housing structure of the area. However, the absence of home value data should not be interpreted as an indication of poor quality; rather, it highlights the focus on rental housing in 36362.
When comparing these figures to typical Dale County, AL ZIP codes, the high renter share combined with below-metro average rents suggests that 36362 could be particularly attractive for Section 8 tenants. The program provides subsidies for low-income families to afford decent housing, and ZIP 36362's rental rates being significantly below the market rate make it a prime location for such subsidies to cover a larger portion of the rent. This scenario typically benefits both landlords and tenants, as it ensures steady occupancy and manageable costs for the latter.
In summary, ZIP 36362 appears to be a value pocket within the Dale County, AL metro area, characterized by its low FMR relative to market rent and a complete reliance on rental housing. These attributes align well with the needs of Section 8 participants, making it a strategic investment for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to tap into a stable tenant pool.
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.