Location: Sumter County, AL | Metro: Choctaw County, AL
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,110 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,104 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,272 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 36912 is home to a population of 1,219 individuals, with 11.1% being renters. The median household income in this area stands at $39,926. This suggests that the ZIP is more homeowner-dominated rather than renter-heavy, implying that the demand for rental properties using Section 8 vouchers may be relatively low.
Given the median income, we can infer the typical rent burden on local households. Although specific market rent figures for ZIP 36912 are not available, we can use the Fair Market Rent (FMR) as a benchmark. The FMR for the metro area, which includes ZIP 36912, is set at $1,170 per month (for FY 2026).
To understand the financial strain of renting, let's calculate the percentage of income that would go towards rent based on the FMR. At $1,170 per month, the annual rent cost comes to $14,040. This represents approximately 35.2% of the median household income in the ZIP code. While this is a significant portion, it aligns with the general guideline that housing costs should not exceed 30% of a household's income. Therefore, even without precise local market rent data, we can conclude that typical rents are reasonably aligned with the income levels of residents.
The type of tenant profile landlords in ZIP 36912 should anticipate is someone who likely has an income around the median or slightly below, given the nature of the Section 8 program which targets lower-income families. These tenants will have a voucher to cover a substantial portion of their rent, up to the FMR of $1,170 per month, depending on their individual income levels. Landlords should prepare for tenants who are committed to paying their portion of the rent on time, as the Section 8 program mandates that tenants contribute a portion of their income toward rent.
In summary, while ZIP 36912 leans towards being a homeowner-dominated area, there is still a viable market for Section 8 rentals. The expected tenants will be those with incomes close to the median, benefiting from government assistance to make housing affordable. Landlords should ensure their properties meet the necessary standards to participate in the Section 8 program, and they can expect steady, reliable payments from the tenants' share and the government subsidy.
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.