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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,310 | $140,124 | 0.93% | C |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $177,696 | 0.89% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP code 39581 presents a dynamic equilibrium between supply and demand, with slight indications that demand may be edging ahead. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $900 for the fiscal year 2024 contrasts with the actual market rent, known as the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), which stands at $1,170. This suggests that landlords can command rents above the government-set threshold, indicating a level of tenant competition.
A 0.3% price-cut share signals that landlords rarely need to reduce rental prices to attract tenants, further supporting the notion that demand is robust. While the days on market (DOM) data is not available, the low price-cut share implies that units are likely being leased without extended vacancy periods.
The median home value of $139,260 places this area within an affordable range for many potential homeowners, but the high renter share of 59.2% suggests that renting remains a preferred option for a significant portion of the population. This high percentage of renters can be indicative of several factors: economic conditions that favor renting over buying, a transient population, or a demographic skew towards younger residents who are more likely to rent.
The dominance of renters in ZIP 39581 points to sustained long-term housing pressure. With nearly 60% of households choosing to rent, there is a consistent demand for rental properties, which can lead to steady occupancy rates and potentially stable rental income for landlords. However, it also means that any changes in local employment or economic conditions could rapidly affect the rental market's dynamics.
In summary, ZIP 39581 is characterized by a strong rental market with a slight edge towards demand over supply. Landlords benefit from a situation where they can charge above the FMR without frequent concessions, and the high renter share provides insight into the ongoing housing pressures and preferences of the local population.
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.