Location: Portage County, WI | Metro: Portage County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 54481, located in Stevens Point, WI, is part of Portage County and has a distinct profile compared to other areas. With a population of 28,242, it stands out due to its significant rental market share of 42.6%. The median income here is $59,545, indicating a middle-class community. Despite the rental prevalence, the median home value is relatively high at $254,642, suggesting that homeownership remains a priority for many residents.
The voucher economics in ZIP 54481 are favorable for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,030, while the market rent, as measured by ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index), is $1,291. This means that landlords can potentially earn an additional $261 per month above the voucher amount, making it a lucrative opportunity to participate in the Section 8 program.
The data signature for ZIP 54481 reads as stable. The high median home value alongside a substantial rental market indicates a balanced housing sector where both renters and buyers coexist. Additionally, the modest difference between the FMR and market rent suggests a steady demand for housing, without the volatility often seen in transitional markets. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should find this environment predictable and conducive to long-term investment strategies.
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.