Location: Polk County, WI | Metro: Polk County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 54006 in Polk County, Wisconsin, reveals several key points that are crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The first question to address is whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,000 per month for fiscal year 2026, is significantly higher than the current market rent of $634 based on Census ACS data. This indicates that landlords could potentially increase their rental income if they can attract tenants willing to pay closer to the FMR rate.
Regarding the affordability of acquisitions, the median home value in ZIP 54006 is $276,338. While the average number of days on the market (DOM) and the percentage of homes requiring price cuts are not available, the median home value suggests that purchasing properties here is relatively affordable compared to other metropolitan areas. This makes it an attractive option for investors looking to acquire assets without breaking the bank.
Lastly, the tenant demand must be considered. With a total population of 852, only 12.2% of residents are renters. This low percentage implies that the pool of potential tenants is limited, which could make it challenging to fill vacancies quickly and maintain steady occupancy rates.
Verdict: The ZIP code 54006 offers a favorable opportunity for landlords who can position their properties to command rents close to the $1,000 FMR. Acquisition costs are reasonable, making it possible to purchase homes for less than $276,338. However, the limited tenant demand due to the small renter population of 12.2% necessitates careful marketing and possibly competitive pricing strategies to ensure consistent occupancy and profitability.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.