Location: Pascagoula, 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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,060 | $105,338 | 1.01% | B |
| 3BR | $1,450 | $196,504 | 0.74% | D |
| 4BR | $1,700 | $234,228 | 0.73% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 39553, which covers Gautier, Mississippi, is set at $1060 for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program. It's important to note that this is not the actual rent you will receive; it's the payment standard used by the housing authority.
In comparison, the local Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) for the area is $1,273. This indicates that the market rent for properties in Gautier exceeds the Section 8 payment standard, meaning you might need to subsidize the difference if you want to participate in the program.
The 28.4% renter share in Gautier suggests a moderate demand for rental properties. While this isn't the highest percentage, it does indicate that there are enough potential tenants who would be interested in renting through Section 8. The median household income in the area is around $186,789, which provides insight into the local economy and helps to gauge the financial stability of your potential tenants.
If you're considering your first Section 8 rental property in Gautier, one key factor to verify is the condition of the property. Before signing up, ensure that your property meets all the required inspection standards. This includes safety, cleanliness, and structural integrity. The housing authority will conduct an inspection to confirm that your property complies with the Housing Quality Standards (HQS), and failing this could delay your participation in the program.
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.