Location: Stone 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 | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 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 | $1,090 | $167,859 | 0.65% | D |
| 3BR | $1,400 | $235,045 | 0.6% | F |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $309,987 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 39574, Saucier, MS, stands at $70,094. Considering the market rate for rent is $891 according to the Census ACS, it becomes evident that households in this area can comfortably afford the average rental costs. However, when comparing these figures to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set at $1100 for zip FY 2024, a significant affordability gap emerges.
This disparity means that while the typical renter can manage the current market rate, they would struggle to cover the higher FMR amount stipulated by the voucher program. Given that only 14.7% of the 13,535 population are renters, landlords must carefully consider their tenant acquisition strategies.
The competition among landlords in Saucier, MS, is likely to be moderate due to the relatively low percentage of renters. Landlords who focus on cash-paying tenants might find a more stable and straightforward leasing process, as the majority of residents are homeowners. However, those willing to accept vouchers could tap into a different segment of the market, though they should prepare for lower rents compared to the market rate.
Takeaway: For landlords deciding between voucher and cash-pay tenants, the choice should be guided by an understanding of the local economic conditions. While the market rate is within reach for most households, the lower rent associated with vouchers may be necessary to attract tenants in a competitive environment where only a fraction of the population seeks rentals. Prioritize clear financial planning and tenant screening processes regardless of the strategy chosen.
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.