Location: Huntington County, IN | Metro: Wells County, IN 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,105 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $93,798 | 1.08% | B |
| 3BR | $1,340 | $165,003 | 0.81% | C |
| 4BR | $1,500 | $256,727 | 0.58% | F |
| 5BR | $1,740 | $331,905 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
91.5% of the housing market in Marion, IN, ZIP 46952, is dominated by homeowners, reflecting a median home value of $163,642. However, the 31.5% renter share indicates a significant portion of the population relies on rental properties, making it a viable market for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $960, which is notably higher than the market rent, known as ZORI, at $827. This discrepancy suggests potential for landlords to secure Section 8 contracts, given the government's willingness to pay above market rates.
Investors should also consider the median income of $52,880 when evaluating the financial health of potential tenants. A robust income level supports a stable rental market where tenants can afford their monthly payments. Moreover, the low 0.3% price-cut share reveals that property values are relatively resilient, with few landlords needing to reduce their asking rents to attract tenants.
The absence of day DOM (days on market) data might indicate a quick turnover rate for rentals, suggesting strong demand. With the FMR exceeding the market rent, landlords in Marion, IN, have an opportunity to leverage Section 8 contracts to fill vacancies and ensure steady cash flow.
Given the data, Marion, IN, presents a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 participation. The combination of a moderate renter share, a healthy median income, and a fair market rent that surpasses the market rent makes this area ripe for investment in affordable housing.
Verdict: Marion, IN, is a good candidate for Section 8 investments.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.