Location: Battle Creek, MI | Metro: Battle Creek, MI MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,030 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
ZIP code 49016, located within the Battle Creek, MI MSA, has a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1040 for fiscal year 2024. This places it slightly below the MSA’s average FMR for a two-bedroom unit, which is set to be $1,090 in fiscal year 2025 according to HUD. The absence of specific market rent and home value data for 49016 makes direct comparisons challenging, but the FMR suggests that it is a mid-tier neighborhood within the MSA.
The Battle Creek MSA’s FMR for a two-bedroom unit in 2026 is expected to increase to $1,176, indicating a slight rise in rental costs across the region. Given that 49016’s current FMR is below this projected average, it could be seen as a value pocket, offering more affordable rental options for tenants and potentially attracting those seeking lower-cost living within the MSA.
The lack of reported renter share data for 49016 means we cannot definitively state its position relative to other ZIP codes in terms of tenant demographics. However, if 49016 had a higher-than-average renter share with below-average home values, this would signal a favorable location for Section 8 properties. Such conditions often create a sweet spot where demand for affordable housing is strong relative to the supply, making it attractive for landlords and investors.
In conclusion, based on the available data, ZIP code 49016 appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood within the Battle Creek, MI MSA, leaning towards being a value pocket due to its slightly below-average FMR. Landlords and investors should continue to monitor local economic trends and additional data points to make informed decisions about property investments in this area.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027).
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.