Location: Kalamazoo-Portage, MI | Metro: Battle Creek, 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 | $1,050 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,371 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,260 | $157,534 | 0.8% | D |
| 3BR | $1,500 | $220,722 | 0.68% | D |
| 4BR | $1,690 | $293,711 | 0.58% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 49015, located in Battle Creek, MI, has a population of 27,765 residents, with 28.0% of them being renters. This indicates that the area has a significant renter base, making it an attractive location for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The median household income in this ZIP code is $68,821, which provides a solid foundation for assessing the affordability of housing.
The market rent in ZIP 49015 stands at $1,363 per month. To put this into perspective, the typical rent eats up approximately 20% of the local median income. This percentage suggests that while rent is a considerable expense, it remains manageable for most households given their income levels.
Comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR), which is set at $1,120 for FY 2024, reveals that the actual market rent exceeds the FMR by about $243. This discrepancy implies that there is a robust demand for rental properties, potentially including a strong presence of Section 8 voucher holders. However, landlords must be prepared to accept the FMR for tenants using vouchers, which could mean a slight reduction in rental income compared to the market rate.
The kind of tenant profile a landlord in ZIP 49015 should expect includes individuals and families who are likely to benefit from the Section 8 program due to lower income levels relative to the median. These tenants would typically have a monthly income that allows them to contribute 30% towards rent, which aligns closely with the FMR guidelines. Landlords will need to ensure their properties meet the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) to qualify for the Section 8 program and attract these tenants effectively.
In summary, ZIP 49015 presents a favorable environment for landlords interested in Section 8 tenants, with a substantial renter population and a market that supports slightly higher rents than the FMR. The expected tenants would be those who require assistance to afford decent housing and are willing to comply with the terms and conditions of the Section 8 program.
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.