Location: Osceola County, MI | Metro: Clare County, MI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,428 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,549 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 49679 is situated in a tranquil suburban neighborhood characterized by its low population density and primarily residential environment. With a total population of just 1,375 residents, it stands out as an area where homeownership is highly prevalent, given that only 8.6% of the inhabitants are renters. The median household income in this region is strong at $62,120, indicating a relatively affluent community. Correspondingly, the median home value in ZIP 49679 is set at $186,163, which reflects the high demand for property in this area.
Moving into the realm of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 49679, as defined by the metro area's fiscal year 2026, is pegged at $1,310. This figure contrasts with the actual market rent, which is reported to be $1,038 according to the latest Census ACS data. The discrepancy between the FMR and the market rent suggests a potential opportunity for landlords and investors who can leverage the higher voucher rates to cover their costs and possibly generate additional revenue.
Given these economic dynamics, ZIP 49679 would likely appeal more to a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The area's characteristics—low population density, high homeownership rate, and modest rental market—indicate a preference for stability over aggressive growth strategies. For those looking to manage properties with minimal intervention, relying on the Section 8 program could provide a steady stream of tenants and predictable cash flow, thanks to the government-backed rental assistance. However, for investors seeking to actively improve and increase the value of their properties, the limited number of renters and the relatively small size of the market may not offer the necessary scale or opportunities for significant returns on investment.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.