Location: Barry County, MI | Metro: Barry County, 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 | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,111 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,553 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,210 | $268,448 | 0.45% | F |
| 3BR | $1,570 | $318,459 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 49050, Dowling, Michigan, is set at $1,070 for metro fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers, which means it's the maximum amount that the government will pay toward your tenant's rent. It does not dictate the rent you charge; rather, it ensures that tenants can afford to live in properties up to this value.
Comparatively, the average local rent in ZIP 49050, based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, is $575. This suggests that the FMR for Section 8 is significantly higher than the typical rent in the area, providing a good margin for landlords. The difference between these two figures highlights the potential financial benefit of participating in the Section 8 program.
The renter share in Dowling is 9.1%, indicating that there is a steady demand for rental properties. This percentage translates to a substantial number of individuals who might be interested in renting through Section 8, given the program's affordability and the local rental market conditions.
If you're looking to acquire a property in this area, consider that the median home value is around $269,527. While this might seem high, it's important to note that the Section 8 payment standard is designed to cover a significant portion of the monthly mortgage and maintenance costs, making it a viable option even for small-portfolio investors.
Before proceeding with a Section 8 rental, verify that your property meets all the required standards for habitability and safety. This includes ensuring that the unit is free from health and safety hazards, and that it complies with local housing codes. This step is crucial because failing to meet these standards could result in penalties or loss of voucher eligibility.
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.