Location: Winston County, MS | Metro: Choctaw County, MS
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 39769 in the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,050. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can receive through the Section 8 program for a given unit, based on the size and type of dwelling. It's important to note that this is the payment standard, meaning it is the ceiling for the government subsidy portion of the rent, not necessarily the total rent you will charge.
To provide context, the average market rent in ZIP 39769, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS), is approximately $850. This indicates that the FMR of $1,050 is higher than the typical market rate, which could be advantageous for landlords looking to cover operating costs and potentially make a profit.
The demand for rentals in ZIP 39769 is robust, with 28.1% of the population being renters. This suggests a steady pool of potential tenants who might qualify for Section 8 assistance, making it a viable option for those interested in entering the rental market.
If you're considering purchasing a property to use as a Section 8 rental, the median home value in ZIP 39769 is around $191,776. This figure can help you estimate the initial investment required to acquire a property suitable for the program.
Before proceeding with a Section 8 rental, one key verification step is to ensure that your property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards are set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and must be met for a property to be eligible under the Section 8 program. The HQS inspection covers a wide range of issues including structural soundness, heating, plumbing, and safety features, among others. Compliance with these standards is essential to avoid delays in the approval process and to maintain eligibility throughout the tenancy.
In summary, the FMR of $1,050 offers a competitive benchmark for landlords in ZIP 39769, while the local average rent of $850 and a significant renter share of 28.1% suggest strong demand. With a median home value of about $191,776, acquiring a property for this purpose is feasible. However, the critical step is ensuring your property passes the HQS inspection, which is a prerequisite for participation in the Section 8 program.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.