Location: Walworth County, WI | Metro: Janesville-Beloit, 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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,352 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,667 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,170 | $274,065 | 0.43% | F |
| 3BR | $1,490 | $362,577 | 0.41% | F |
| 4BR | $1,810 | $405,713 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 53190, located in Whitewater, WI, within the Walworth County metro area, reveals a competitive rental environment. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1050, slightly above the Census ACS-reported market rent of $1,041. This indicates that voucher tenants will generally cashflow at FMR, with minimal risk for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
To further understand the investment potential, consider the median home value of $362,033. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio, which stands at approximately 0.3%. This low ratio suggests that the area is more favorable for renting rather than buying, as the rental income does not significantly offset the high purchase price of homes.
The dynamics of the local real estate market, including the N/A-day median Days on Market (DOM) and a 0.1% price-cut share, indicate a stable housing market with little need for price adjustments. However, these metrics do not directly impact the decision between renting and buying, given the already established low rent-to-price ratio.
In conclusion, the strongest investor angle in ZIP 53190 is cashflow. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect consistent returns from voucher tenants without significant financial strain, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing steady income over capital appreciation or market stability.
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.