Location: Lansing-East Lansing, MI | Metro: Ann Arbor, 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 | $1,230 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,250 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,060 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,677 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,891 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,036 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,500 | $237,168 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $1,830 | $303,147 | 0.6% | D |
| 4BR | $2,060 | $336,541 | 0.61% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 49285, located in Stockbridge, MI within the Lansing-East Lansing, MI MSA, presents a unique profile compared to typical ZIP codes in the region. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 49285 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1250. This figure is higher than the average market rent of $858, indicating that federally subsidized rents are above what the local market typically demands.
The median home value in 49285 stands at $288,999. This is lower than the average home value in the Lansing-East Lansing MSA, which suggests that 49285 could be considered a value pocket within the larger metropolitan area. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should note that while the home values are relatively low, the FMR is significantly higher, potentially offering a good opportunity for rental income relative to property costs.
The renter share in 49285 is 17.7%. This percentage is notably higher than the average for the Lansing-East Lansing MSA, where the typical renter share is around 15%. A higher renter share combined with lower home values can indicate a strong presence of federally assisted housing programs such as Section 8. This divergence makes 49285 an attractive location for landlords interested in participating in government rental assistance programs.
To summarize, 49285 is positioned as a value pocket within the Lansing-East Lansing MSA. It offers lower home values than the metro average, coupled with a higher FMR and a greater proportion of renters. These characteristics make it a prime candidate for landlords looking to leverage Section 8 opportunities, as it provides a balance between manageable property costs and higher guaranteed rental income.
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.