Location: Shiawassee County, MI | Metro: Lansing-East Lansing, MI MSA
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 | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,833 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,217 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,328 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,150 | $235,081 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $302,368 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $1,580 | $383,940 | 0.41% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 48848, located in Laingsburg, Michigan, stands out within Shiawassee County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 8,344 residents, the area has a relatively low rental rate at 11.7%, indicating that most residents prefer homeownership. The median household income in ZIP 48848 is $94,519, which is above the national average, suggesting a financially stable community. Additionally, the median home value of $297,969 reflects a moderate cost of living compared to other parts of the state.
Moving into the specifics of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 48848 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $960. This figure is notably lower than the market rent of $1,038, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This discrepancy means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program may see a slight reduction in rental income when compared to the local market rates. However, the difference is minimal, and the stability of the housing market in this ZIP code can provide consistent and reliable tenants through the voucher program.
The data signature for ZIP 48848 reads as stable, characterized by a steady median income and home values that suggest little fluctuation in the local economy. The low rental rate also indicates that the housing market is primarily driven by homeowners rather than renters, further reinforcing the notion of a stable community. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code presents an opportunity to participate in the Section 8 program without significant risk, given the financial health of the residents and the modest gap between FMR and market rents.
To summarize, ZIP 48848 offers a balanced environment for Section 8 participation, with a median income of $94,519 and a median home value of $297,969. The FMR of $960 is slightly below the market rent of $1,038, but the overall economic stability of the area makes it a favorable location for those considering the benefits of the Section 8 program.
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.