Location: Clark County, WI | Metro: Clark County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The economics of Section 8 in ZIP code 54446 are straightforward. The SAFMR (Section 8 Assistance Fair Market Rent) for a two-bedroom apartment is set at $970 per month for fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the maximum amount the government will pay toward rent for a unit of this size in this specific ZIP code. However, it's important to note that the local market rent for a similar unit is $870 according to the latest Census ACS data.
A landlord participating in the Section 8 program should understand that the actual reimbursement they receive is influenced by both the tenant's contribution and any utility allowances. The tenant typically pays 30% of their adjusted income towards rent. For example, if a tenant has an adjusted monthly income of $1,000, they would contribute $300 toward the rent. The remaining balance up to the SAFMR is covered by the government, subject to the utility allowance which is also included in the total reimbursement.
To illustrate, let's assume a two-bedroom apartment in ZIP 54446 is listed at the SAFMR of $970. If the tenant contributes $300, and the utility allowance is $100, the government would cover $570 of the rent. Thus, the landlord receives $870 ($300 from the tenant + $570 from the government).
In ZIP 54446, landlords might find themselves with a surplus when comparing the SAFMR to the local market rent. Given the SAFMR of $970 and the local market rent of $870, there is a $100 surplus per month for a two-bedroom unit. This means landlords can potentially charge the higher SAFMR rate without losing tenants who qualify for the subsidy, while still receiving the typical market rent plus an additional amount.
It's crucial to remember that the SAFMR is designed to reflect the rental market conditions in the specific ZIP code, ensuring that landlords are paid a fair rate that aligns with the local economic realities. By understanding these dynamics, landlords can make informed decisions about participating in the Section 8 program and manage their expectations regarding rental income.
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.