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 | $1,350 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,500 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,888 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,235 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,494 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,669 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,880 | $263,288 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $2,290 | $420,611 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,490 | $558,324 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $2,888 | $675,513 | 0.43% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Rochester Hills, MI, located in Oakland County, is characterized by a robust economic profile that sets it apart from other ZIP codes. With a population of 30,685 residents, only 19.3% of whom rent, the area is predominantly owner-occupied. The median income stands at a strong $121,077, reflecting a prosperous community. Additionally, the median home value is notably high at $479,010, indicating a stable and affluent housing market.
The voucher economics in ZIP 48309 present an interesting dynamic. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a one-bedroom apartment in the zip code for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,660, while the Census American Community Survey (ACS) indicates a market rate of $1,686. This suggests that voucher holders can find suitable housing options within their budget, with minimal variance between the FMR and market rates. However, given the high median home values, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the potential for higher competition among renters and the need to maintain quality standards to attract voucher holders.
Evaluating the data signature of ZIP 48309, it reads as stable. The combination of a high median income and median home value points towards a financially secure community with little indication of significant change. The low percentage of renters further supports this stability, as it implies a strong base of homeowners who are likely to remain in their properties long-term. For investors, this stability means consistent demand for rental properties and reliable returns on investment.
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.