Location: Van Buren County, MI | Metro: Van Buren County, MI
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,819 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,965 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,350 | $202,535 | 0.67% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 49057 presents a dynamic rental market that reflects current economic conditions and housing preferences. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $970 for the fiscal year 2026, it indicates a level set by HUD that aims to cover the cost of decent housing without exceeding 30 percent of area median income. Meanwhile, the market rent reported by the Census ACS is at $816. This suggests that while the FMR is higher, actual rents are lower, indicating a balance between what landlords can charge and what tenants are willing to pay.
The median home value of $170,787 in ZIP 49057 provides insight into the overall property values in the area. However, the lack of data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) means we cannot definitively state whether supply outpaces demand or vice versa. In a balanced market, these figures would typically indicate how quickly properties are selling and if there's a need for price adjustments to attract buyers.
A noteworthy aspect of this market is the 22.6% renter share. This percentage tells us that a significant portion of the population prefers renting over owning, which can be indicative of several factors such as affordability, job stability, or lifestyle choices. High renter shares often imply long-term housing pressure, as demand for rental units remains steady. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this when evaluating the potential for rental income and the stability of their investments in this area.
In summary, ZIP 49057 offers a snapshot of a market where rental demand is substantial, but pricing is currently below the fair market rate. The median home value suggests an affordable housing environment, but without further details on supply and demand dynamics, it's challenging to determine if the market is trending towards saturation or scarcity. The high renter share signals a continuous demand for rental properties, making it a viable investment option for those looking to capitalize on the rental market's consistent performance.
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.