Location: Wausau, WI | Metro: Wausau, WI MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 54484, located within the Wausau, WI Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), exhibits characteristics that place it firmly in the mid-tier neighborhood category when compared to typical ZIP codes within the Wausau MSA. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 54484 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1050, which is notably higher than the market rent of $909. This suggests that the government's rental assistance program, Section 8, can offer slightly above-average rental rates in this area, making it attractive to landlords who wish to participate in the program.
The median home value in 54484 stands at $272,171, aligning closely with the average home values seen across other ZIP codes in the Wausau MSA. This consistency indicates that 54484 is neither a particularly undervalued nor overvalued area within the metro, but rather represents a balanced segment of the housing market.
The renter share in 54484 is 12.0%, which is lower than the average renter share typically found in many metropolitan areas. However, this figure alone does not necessarily indicate that 54484 is a less desirable location for renters. Instead, it points to a more evenly distributed mix between homeowners and renters, suggesting a stable local economy where both groups find suitable housing options.
To determine if 54484 is a sweet spot for Section 8 landlords, we must consider the relationship between the FMR and the market rent. Given that the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords could potentially benefit from participating in the program, as they would receive higher rent payments than the typical market rate. Additionally, the relatively low renter share combined with the FMR being above the market rent could make 54484 an appealing area for those seeking to attract Section 8 tenants without compromising on rental income levels.
In summary, ZIP code 54484 is best characterized as a mid-tier neighborhood within the Wausau, WI MSA. It offers competitive rental rates through the Section 8 program while maintaining home values that reflect the broader metro averages. Landlords in this ZIP code can expect to benefit from slightly elevated rental incomes when participating in the Section 8 program, positioning 54484 as a solid investment choice for those interested in this type of rental assistance.
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.