Location: Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI | Metro: Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI 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 | $980 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,100 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,352 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,667 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,370 | $169,305 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $1,670 | $208,961 | 0.8% | D |
| 4BR | $1,810 | $318,117 | 0.57% | F |
| 5BR | $2,100 | $302,477 | 0.69% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 48174, located in Romulus, MI, falls within the broader Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI HUD Metro FMR Area. Its Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1260, slightly above the average market rent of $1242. This suggests that the rental market in 48174 is somewhat competitive, with rents marginally higher than what might be expected.
The median home value in 48174 is $215,264. This figure places it squarely within the middle range of typical home values found across the Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI HUD Metro FMR Area. The home values in this area are generally affordable, making it attractive for both renters and owners alike.
A notable characteristic of ZIP code 48174 is its renter share, which stands at 25.8%. This percentage is significant and indicates a substantial portion of the population relies on rental housing. When combined with the below-average home values compared to other areas within the same metro, this points towards a potential value pocket for Section 8 investors.
To determine if 48174 is a value pocket, mid-tier neighborhood, or premium sub-market within its metro, consider the following:
The combination of a slightly elevated FMR and a substantial renter share, along with below-average home values, makes ZIP code 48174 a particularly interesting area for Section 8 investors. These factors suggest a neighborhood where rental properties can serve a significant portion of the population effectively, while also offering a good balance between investment cost and potential returns.
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.