Location: Clarke County, AL | Metro: Clarke County, AL
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $700 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 36545 should be considered a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the Clarke County, AL metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $780, which is higher than the market rent of $650. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive a rental subsidy that covers the difference, ensuring a stable and predictable cash flow. With a median home value of $133,403, properties in this ZIP code are relatively affordable, making them accessible to first-time investors or those looking to expand their portfolios without significant capital outlay.
The spread between the FMR and market rent provides an additional buffer for landlords, protecting against potential decreases in market rents. This stability is crucial for maintaining a healthy cash flow, especially when dealing with tenants who rely on government subsidies. Furthermore, the median income of $46,553 indicates a moderate economic environment, where a portion of the population may qualify for Section 8 assistance, thereby supporting demand for subsidized housing units.
A cash-flow anchor such as ZIP 36545 serves as a reliable component of a diversified investment strategy. It ensures that even if other parts of the portfolio experience fluctuations in rental income or property values, this segment will continue to generate steady returns. For small-portfolio investors, this can be particularly advantageous, as it reduces the risk associated with relying solely on market rents, which can be volatile.
While ZIP 36545 does not present strong opportunities for appreciation, given its 0.1% price-cut share and N/A-day days on market (DOM), it remains a solid choice for investors focused on long-term, consistent cash flow generation rather than short-term capital gains. The 32.6% renter share suggests a healthy demand for rental properties, further reinforcing the suitability of this ZIP code as a cash-flow anchor.
In summary, ZIP 36545 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its favorable spread between FMR and market rent, along with its moderate economic indicators, make it a dependable source of income for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
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.