Location: Kenosha, WI | Metro: Kenosha, WI 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 | $1,270 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,888 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,235 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,494 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,669 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,610 | $236,138 | 0.68% | D |
| 3BR | $2,190 | $335,969 | 0.65% | D |
| 4BR | $2,490 | $449,495 | 0.55% | F |
| 5BR | $2,888 | $518,985 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 53142 in Kenosha, Wisconsin, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1510. This figure represents the maximum amount that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will pay landlords under the Section 8 program, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program. It is important to note that this is not the actual rent you can charge your tenants; it is the reimbursement standard from the government.
In contrast, the local market rent for ZIP 53142 is currently at $2,071, based on the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI). This indicates that the typical rent charged for properties in this area exceeds the Section 8 reimbursement rate, suggesting that landlords participating in the program might need to adjust their expectations regarding rental income.
The 28.3% renter share in the area signifies that nearly three out of every ten households are renters. This percentage highlights a substantial demand for rental properties, including those that might be rented through the Section 8 program. However, the demand does not necessarily mean high profitability if you rely solely on the Section 8 reimbursement rates.
If you're considering purchasing a property for a Section 8 rental, the average acquisition cost for a home in ZIP 53142 is around $321,232. This investment must be weighed against the potential rental income, which is capped by the FMR. Additionally, consider the ongoing costs such as maintenance, utilities, and property taxes, which can significantly affect your bottom line.
Before making your decision to enter the Section 8 market, verify that the FMR covers your expenses sufficiently. This includes calculating all your monthly costs and ensuring they do not exceed the reimbursement rate. If you find that your expenses are higher than the $1510 FMR, you may need to reconsider the purchase or look into other subsidy programs that could help bridge the gap.
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.