Location: Green 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 | $1,150 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,340 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,622 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,937 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,172 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,331 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,020 | $423,061 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
11.7% of residents in ZIP code 53521 are renters, indicating a modest demand for rental properties in the area. $1,201 is the average market rent as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, suggesting that landlords can expect to charge this amount per month for a typical unit. However, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 in ZIP 53521, set at $1290 for fiscal year 2024, represents a higher potential rent for those participating in the housing assistance program. This means that landlords could potentially receive a higher monthly rent payment through Section 8 compared to the general market.
$492,522 is the median home value in the area, reflecting a relatively stable housing market. Given the median income of $108,036, it's evident that the cost of living, including housing, is well within reach for many residents, though the high median home value might suggest that some may require assistance to afford decent housing. The data does not provide specific days on market (DOM) or the percentage of homes that have been subject to price cuts, which would be useful indicators of the local real estate market's liquidity and competitiveness.
In conclusion, the combination of a moderate renter share, a slightly lower market rent compared to the Section 8 FMR, and a high median home value makes ZIP 53521 an attractive location for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to participate in the Section 8 program. The higher guaranteed rent through Section 8 can offset any risks associated with tenant turnover and maintenance costs, providing a steady and reliable source of income. Verdict: ZIP 53521 is suitable for Section 8 investments.
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.