Location: Livingston County, MI | Metro: Livingston County, MI HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,260 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,920 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,529 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,059 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,212 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 48139 presents an interesting mix for landlords and small-portfolio investors considering Section 8 tenants. With a population of 96,000, 20.5% of residents are renters, indicating a moderate rental presence rather than a heavy one. The median household income stands at $47,188, which is crucial when assessing the financial suitability of potential tenants.
To understand the depth of voucher demand, we must compare the median income to the Fair Market Rent (FMR). For fiscal year 2024, the FMR for ZIP 48139 is $1,290. Given that the median income is $47,188, let's calculate the average rent as a percentage of income. If we assume a typical renter spends about 30% of their income on housing, then the average rent would be approximately $1,180 ($47,188 * 0.30 / 12). This figure is slightly below the FMR, suggesting that there is a reasonable demand for Section 8 vouchers in the area, but it is not excessively high.
The fact that typical market rent is just under the FMR implies that landlords can expect a steady stream of Section 8 applicants who can afford rents up to $1,290. However, it also means that competition for these tenants will likely be present, as the rent-to-income ratio is relatively manageable. Landlords should anticipate tenants who are financially stable enough to meet the requirements of Section 8, but also consider that the rental market is not dominated by voucher holders.
In summary, ZIP 48139 is neither a renter-heavy area nor a homeowner-dominated one without any voucher demand. It falls somewhere in between, offering a balanced opportunity for landlords to engage with Section 8 tenants. Expectants should prepare for a moderate influx of voucher applications, understanding that while the demand exists, it is not overwhelming. Tenants will likely be those who have incomes reflective of the local median, seeking affordable housing options within the parameters set by 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.