Location: Muskegon-Norton Shores, MI | Metro: Muskegon-Norton Shores, 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 | $950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,984 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,222 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $990 | $103,388 | 0.96% | C |
| 2BR | $1,300 | $131,835 | 0.99% | C |
| 3BR | $1,550 | $253,442 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $1,710 | $338,415 | 0.51% | F |
| 5BR | $1,984 | $439,715 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1110 for ZIP code 49444 (Norton Shores, MI) in fiscal year 2024, landlords can expect a slight premium over the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI), which stands at $997. This indicates a positive outlook for rental properties in the area, suggesting a potential for higher returns compared to market averages. The median home value of $184,868 provides a solid foundation for property investments, reflecting stable housing prices that can offer good long-term appreciation potential.
A renter share of 30.7% signals a significant portion of the population is looking for rental options, making it an attractive market for landlords. Additionally, the median income of $53,054 suggests that residents have the financial capacity to afford rents close to the FMR, thus supporting the viability of higher rental rates. The average Days on Market (DOM) of 33 days shows that properties are typically rented out relatively quickly, indicating demand and efficient turnover. Furthermore, a mere 0.2% of listings are subject to price cuts, reinforcing the stability and attractiveness of the rental market in Norton Shores.
Given these metrics, Norton Shores presents a favorable environment for Section 8 participation. The gap between the FMR and ZORI, coupled with a robust demand and low price-cut share, supports the conclusion that landlords can achieve competitive rental yields while serving the community through the Section 8 program. The verdict for Section 8 in Norton Shores, MI is a strong affirmative, given the economic indicators and market dynamics.
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.