Location: Greene County, MS | Metro: Pascagoula, MS HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,844 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,342 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $980 | $141,142 | 0.69% | D |
| 3BR | $1,310 | $221,243 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $292,771 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The dynamics of the housing market in ZIP 39452, Lucedale, Mississippi, reveal a scenario where demand is closely aligned with supply, but slight indications suggest that demand might be gaining momentum. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $900 for fiscal year 2024 exceeds the current market rent of $853 based on the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS) data. This suggests that rental properties are undervalued relative to government standards, which could signal upward pressure on rents.
The low price-cut share of 0.2% implies that landlords and property owners are not frequently discounting their asking prices, indicating a market where listings hold their value well. Additionally, the Days on Market (DOM) average of 57 days is relatively short, suggesting that properties are selling quickly once they are listed, further supporting the idea that demand is robust.
A median home value of $209,673 places Lucedale within an affordable range for many potential homeowners, which can attract both buyers and renters. However, the 17.0% renter share highlights a significant portion of the population that prefers or requires renting over buying. This high renter share can indicate ongoing housing pressure, as it reflects a community where a substantial number of residents are not purchasing homes, possibly due to financial constraints or preference for rental living.
The combination of these factors—rents below FMR, minimal price cuts, quick sales, and a notable renter share—paints a picture of a market where demand is steady and slightly outpacing supply. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of the current undervaluation in rents and consider adjusting their pricing strategies to align more closely with the FMR. Moreover, the high renter share suggests a stable tenant base, which can provide consistent cash flow and a reliable occupancy rate for rental properties.
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.