Location: Columbia County, WI | Metro: Columbia County, WI HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,104 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,272 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $313,870 | 0.34% | F |
| 3BR | $1,490 | $392,821 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 53955, located in Poynette, WI, reveals a unique blend of characteristics that fall somewhere between a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market and a steady-cashflow zone.
The yield potential is notably strong due to the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the median home value. The FMR for ZIP 53955 is set at $940 for fiscal year 2024, which is higher than the market rent of $912. This indicates that rental properties can command slightly above-market rents, benefiting from the subsidized housing program. However, the median home value stands at $402,074, which is significantly higher than the average rental price. This suggests that the area might attract homeowners rather than renters, potentially limiting the number of units available for rental investment.
Regarding stability, the ZIP code shows a modest percentage of renters at 16.3%. This figure is relatively low compared to typical rental markets, indicating that there may be less demand for rental properties. The absence of data on days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to assess how quickly properties might be rented out. However, the median household income in the area is $101,134, which is quite robust and supports the ability of residents to pay rent. This income level suggests that while the rental market might not be as active, those who do rent are likely to be financially stable and capable of making timely payments.
To summarize, ZIP 53955 presents a scenario where the potential for high yields exists due to the favorable FMR compared to market rent and the high median home value. However, the lower percentage of renters and lack of DOM data indicate a market that leans towards steadier cash flow rather than high volatility. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code offers a moderate risk profile with good returns, particularly if they focus on long-term tenants who can afford the rent based on the strong local income levels.
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.