Location: Wausau, WI | Metro: Wausau, 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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,891 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,118 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,287 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,401 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $960 | $125,292 | 0.77% | D |
| 2BR | $1,240 | $174,727 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $1,620 | $239,621 | 0.68% | D |
| 4BR | $1,630 | $292,536 | 0.56% | F |
| 5BR | $1,891 | $362,028 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1050 for zip code 54401 in Wausau, WI, landlords should take note of the slight premium over the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI) which stands at $1,038. This indicates a robust rental market where properties can command higher rents compared to the average. The median home value in the area is $251,318, reflecting a stable housing market that supports both homeownership and rental investments. With a 33.0% share of renters, there's a significant portion of the population looking for rental options, making it a viable market for small-portfolio investors. The median income of $71,586 suggests that tenants have the financial capability to afford the average rent in the area, ensuring a steady stream of potential high-quality tenants. Despite the strong rental demand, only 0.1% of listings have been reported to require price cuts, indicating that once a property is listed, it holds its value well. This low percentage also points to a competitive market where landlords who maintain their properties can expect consistent returns without the need for frequent adjustments. Given these figures, the verdict on Section 8 participation in Wausau is positive, offering a reliable source of tenants who can meet the rental standards set by the FMR.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.