Location: Shawano County, WI | Metro: Oconto 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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,612 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,805 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,046 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,380 | $268,042 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 54124, located within the Shawano County, WI metro, presents a unique profile when compared to typical ZIP codes in the county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 54124 is set at $910 for fiscal year 2024, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $775. This suggests that landlords in 54124 can charge rents above the market average without significantly deterring tenants.
The median home value in 54124 stands at $240,274, which is likely representative of the broader Shawano County market. However, the renter share in 54124 is 13.4%, indicating a slightly higher concentration of renters compared to other ZIP codes in the county. This characteristic is particularly noteworthy as it aligns with the concept of a value pocket, where a combination of higher FMRs and a substantial renter population can create attractive opportunities for small-portfolio investors looking to capitalize on government-assisted housing programs like Section 8.
To further contextualize, let's consider the implications of these figures. A ZIP code with an FMR of $910 but an actual market rent of $775 suggests that there is room for rental price increases without exceeding the affordability threshold set by the government. Meanwhile, the median home value is consistent with the area, implying that property acquisition costs are in line with expectations for Shawano County.
The presence of a higher renter share combined with below-FMR market rents points towards a potential sweet spot for Section 8 properties. Landlords who can offer competitive rents while still receiving the higher FMR subsidies can benefit from stable tenancy and reduced vacancy rates, characteristics often associated with areas favored by Section 8 participants.
In summary, ZIP 54124 appears to be a value pocket within the Shawano County, WI metro. Its slightly elevated FMR compared to market rents, coupled with a higher renter share, makes it a potentially lucrative area for those interested in Section 8 investments. While the median home value is standard for the region, the financial dynamics of rental pricing and tenant composition suggest favorable conditions for both landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking to maximize their returns through government assistance programs.
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.