Location: Newton County, MS | Metro: Clarke County, MS
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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,180 | $209,198 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis in ZIP code 39330 centers around the discrepancy between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR is set at $900, while the Census ACS reports a market rent of $953. This creates a gap of $53, or approximately 5.8%, between what the government will pay and what landlords can charge on the open market.
Given that the FMR is lower than the market rent, landlords must consider the cost implications of housing voucher tenants. The government payment of $900 leaves a shortfall of $53 per unit if the landlord aims to collect the market rate. This scenario makes it less attractive to participate in the Section 8 program without adjustments in property management or other revenue streams.
In ZIP 39330, where only 15.0% of residents are renters, the competition for rental properties is relatively low. However, the median home value stands at $149,859, indicating a moderate level of wealth in the area. With a median income of $58,462, many households may find it challenging to afford market rents without assistance, thus potentially increasing demand for Section 8 units.
To summarize, landlords in ZIP 39330 face a decision: either accept the lower FMR of $900 and the guaranteed tenancy stability that comes with it, or seek out non-voucher tenants willing to pay the higher market rent of $953. The choice should be informed by an understanding of the local rental market dynamics and the financial impact of the $53 gap.
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.