Location: Newaygo County, MI | Metro: Newaygo 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $194,524 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $1,410 | $239,496 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 49349, White Cloud, Michigan, is set at $970 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard used by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Section 8 housing voucher program. It is important to note that this is not the amount tenants will pay in rent; rather, it is the maximum amount HUD will pay landlords for a unit of a given size.
To put this into perspective, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in ZIP 49349 is currently $874 according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive a subsidy close to the FMR of $970, which covers the majority of the typical market rent in the area.
The demand for rental properties in White Cloud is supported by the fact that 13.9% of the population are renters. This indicates a steady rental market, making Section 8 an attractive option for those looking to fill vacancies and ensure regular income. The acquisition cost for a property in this area averages around $202,502, providing a benchmark for potential investment opportunities.
Before deciding to enter the Section 8 program with your first rental property, it is crucial to verify that your property meets all the necessary inspection requirements. HUD mandates that all units participating in the Section 8 program must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection to ensure they are safe and habitable. This verification step is essential to avoid delays in receiving payments and to maintain compliance with federal guidelines.
In conclusion, the FMR of $970 provides a reliable payment standard for landlords in ZIP 49349, ensuring that you receive a fair subsidy for your rental units. With the average local rent at $874 and a significant portion of the population renting, there is a strong demand for affordable housing options. By investing approximately $202,502, you can acquire a property and potentially benefit from the stability offered by the Section 8 program. However, the key to success is ensuring your property passes the HQS inspection, which guarantees both safety and eligibility for the 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.