Location: Appleton, WI | Metro: Appleton, 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 | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,940 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,722 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,858 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,250 | $262,047 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $1,730 | $281,910 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $1,940 | $298,513 | 0.65% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54136, located in Kimberly, WI, presents a unique balance between yield and stability when analyzed through the lens of real estate investment. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $910, which is notably lower than the market rent of $1,152. This suggests that there is potential for higher yields if properties can be rented out at or near market rates.
However, the median home value in the area is $282,326, indicating that the initial investment required for acquiring property is relatively high. Despite this, the gap between FMR and market rent implies that investors can expect a decent return once tenants are secured at market rates. For example, if an investor can secure a tenant paying the market rate of $1,152, the difference of $242 per month could translate into significant additional cash flow over time.
Moving on to stability, the ZIP code has a rental rate of 39.4%, meaning nearly 4 out of every 10 residents are renters. This figure is crucial for understanding the demand for rental properties. However, the lack of data on the number of days on market (DOM) and the average income of $69,495 provide limited insight into the ease of finding tenants and their ability to pay rent consistently.
Given these figures, ZIP 54136 does not fit neatly into either a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market or a steady-cashflow zone. Instead, it occupies a middle ground. The potential for higher yields exists due to the disparity between FMR and market rent, but the substantial median home value and limited data on tenant stability suggest a need for careful consideration. Investors should focus on securing properties at or below the median home value and ensuring they can attract and retain tenants willing to pay market rates.
To summarize, while the ZIP code offers opportunities for higher returns, the investment requires a strategic approach to balance the initial capital outlay against the potential for increased cash flow. The key figures driving this analysis are the $910 FMR versus the $1,152 market rent and the $282,326 median home value, alongside the 39.4% rental rate and $69,495 average income.
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.