Location: Portage County, WI | Metro: Portage County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential pitfalls for a Section 8 landlord in ZIP code 54423 are significant. Tenant turnover is a critical issue, with the market rent at $888 falling below the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $970 for the fiscal year 2026, which is based on the metro area. This discrepancy can lead to higher tenant turnover rates as individuals might seek more affordable options outside the Section 8 program.
Vacancy exposure remains another concern due to the lack of available data on days on market (DOM), which suggests that there might be periods where units remain unoccupied. The absence of timely occupancy can affect cash flow and overall profitability.
Deferred maintenance is also a risk factor, considering the typical home value in the area is $377,466 while the median income stands at $113,690. Landlords must be prepared to invest in property upkeep, as lower incomes may limit tenants' ability to contribute to necessary repairs and renovations.
However, these risks are somewhat mitigated by the high concentration of renters in the area, with 7.3% of the population being renters. High renter density often correlates with increased demand for housing vouchers, providing a steady stream of tenants who are committed to paying their rent through the Section 8 program.
Despite the challenges, the high renter share indicates a robust market for subsidized housing, potentially offsetting some of the financial and maintenance risks associated with the program.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.