Location: Marquette County, MI | Metro: Marquette 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,763 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,133 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,070 | $197,245 | 0.54% | F |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $213,000 | 0.6% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 49814, located in Champion, MI, reveals a unique blend of yield and stability that positions it as a moderate opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $990 for the fiscal year 2026, indicating a solid rental income potential. However, the lack of specific market rent data suggests a less competitive environment, which can be advantageous for securing tenants but may also imply lower demand.
The median home value of $172,535 provides a reasonable entry point for investment properties, though this figure alone does not fully determine the yield. To calculate potential returns, consider the FMR of $990, which could generate an annual rental income of approximately $12,000 before expenses. This translates to a gross yield of roughly 7% when compared to the median home value, assuming a typical property cost of $172,535. This yield is decent but not exceptional, placing it in a middle ground where it offers better returns than purely stable markets but falls short of high-yield areas.
On the stability axis, the data paints a picture of a relatively quiet market. With only 3.0% of the population identified as renters, the demand for rental properties is limited, suggesting slower turnover rates and potentially more stable tenancy. The absence of specific days-on-market (DOM) data further supports this notion, as it implies a less active rental market, reducing the risk of prolonged vacancy periods. Additionally, the average household income of $77,356 indicates a financially secure tenant base, enhancing the likelihood of timely rent payments and lower default rates.
Given these factors, ZIP 49814 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. The combination of a modest rental yield and a stable tenant demographic suggests a low-risk investment environment suitable for those prioritizing consistent, reliable income over rapid capital appreciation. While the potential for quick flips is limited due to the low rental population percentage and uncertain market dynamics, the existing data supports a scenario where long-term investments can provide predictable cash flow and moderate returns.
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.