Location: Gulfport-Biloxi, MS | Metro: Gulfport-Biloxi, 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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $144,271 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $1,330 | $172,454 | 0.77% | D |
| 4BR | $1,460 | $234,849 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 39530, located in Biloxi, MS, within the Gulfport-Biloxi, MS HUD Metro FMR Area, presents itself as a solid cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $990, which is notably lower than the market rent of $1,441. This creates a significant spread that benefits landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The difference between the FMR and the market rent means that landlords can secure a steady income stream that is below the market rate but still guaranteed through the voucher program. This is particularly advantageous given the median home value in the area stands at $155,857, indicating that property values are not excessively high. Therefore, landlords can maintain a healthy cash flow without the risk of overextending themselves financially.
Moreover, the low price-cut share of 0.2% and the lack of data on days on market (DOM) suggest that properties in this ZIP code do not frequently require deep discounts to attract tenants. This stability further supports the idea of using ZIP 39530 as a reliable cash-flow anchor, as it minimizes the financial risks associated with vacancy and the need for significant price adjustments.
The median income in the area is $41,117, and with a renter share of 45.4%, there is a substantial population that relies on rental housing, including those who benefit from Section 8 vouchers. This demographic ensures a consistent demand for rental units, making the ZIP code an ideal choice for landlords seeking stable, predictable cash flows.
In conclusion, ZIP 39530 should be considered a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy due to the favorable spread between the FMR and market rents, coupled with the stability of property values and the robust tenant demand supported by the local economy and demographics.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.