Location: Janesville-Beloit, 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 | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,040 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,330 | $227,155 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $1,680 | $283,671 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $1,750 | $323,589 | 0.54% | F |
| 5BR | $2,030 | $372,892 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 53545, located in Janesville, WI, within the Janesville-Beloit, WI MSA, can serve as an anchor for cash flow within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This assessment is based on the spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1110 for FY 2024 and the market rent of $1,231, which indicates a positive cash flow potential for landlords.
The median home value in ZIP 53545 is $276,928, aligning closely with the data provided. This suggests a stable property value base for rental investments. Furthermore, the area's median income of $73,889 supports the ability of residents to afford the current market rents, ensuring steady demand for rental units.
A key factor in this assessment is the 35.3% renter share, indicating a substantial portion of the population relies on rentals. This high percentage of renters supports a robust tenant pool, reducing vacancy risks and providing consistent cash flow. Additionally, the low 0.1% price-cut share and the fact that the days on market (DOM) is not applicable due to the stability of the market further reinforce the cash flow anchor status of ZIP 53545.
Based on recent trends, the housing market in ZIP 53545 has seen a median home value increase of 5.1% over the past year, as of March 2026. While this represents a modest growth, it is still favorable for maintaining property values and securing long-term investment viability.
In summary, ZIP 53545 is best suited as a cash flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The combination of a positive spread between FMR and market rent, along with a significant renter share and stable market conditions, makes it an attractive option for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking reliable income streams.
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.