Location: Pearl River County, 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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 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 | $1,030 | $197,615 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $1,330 | $252,200 | 0.53% | F |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $313,121 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 39573, located in McHenry, Mississippi, within the Pearl River County metro area, can be effectively utilized in a Section 8 portfolio strategy as an appreciation play. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 39573 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1090, while the current market rent stands at $793, indicating a significant spread. This suggests that properties in this area are undervalued relative to the government's rental subsidy rates, providing a strong foundation for appreciation.
According to recent real estate market analysis, the median home value in ZIP 39573 is $227,152. Despite the moderate affordability with a home-value-to-income ratio of 3.3, the area exhibits positive trends in home price appreciation. For instance, the average home value has increased by 2.3% over the past year, and the median sales price is $265,000, showing a slight increase from the median home value. These indicators suggest that the property values are on an upward trajectory, making ZIP 39573 a favorable choice for investors seeking long-term capital gains.
The low price-cut share of 0.2% and the non-applicable day DOM (Days on Market) further support the notion that this area is a good appreciation play. A low price-cut share implies that sellers are less likely to reduce their asking prices, which is indicative of a stable or growing market. Additionally, the fact that the day DOM is not applicable suggests that properties are selling relatively quickly, without needing extended periods on the market.
In conclusion, ZIP 39573 should be viewed as an appreciation play within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The spread between the FMR and market rent, combined with the positive trends in home value appreciation, makes this area attractive for investors looking to benefit from rising property values over time.
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.