Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 54520 - 2027

Location: Forest County, WI | Metro: Forest County, WI

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$760
1 Bedroom	$800
2 Bedrooms	$1,050
3 Bedrooms	$1,330
4 Bedrooms	$1,410
5 Bedrooms	$1,636
6 Bedrooms	$1,832
7 Bedrooms	$1,979
8 Bedrooms	$2,078

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

3,764

Median Household Income

$60,031

Housing Units

2,887

Renter Percentage

25.1%

Occupancy Rate

57.3%

Renter Occupied

415

The ZIP code 54520, located in the heart of rural Wisconsin, offers a unique blend of tranquility and opportunity for real estate investors. Nestled among picturesque landscapes and surrounded by small-town charm, this area presents a stable environment for both landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to capitalize on affordable housing options.

Fair Market Rent (FMR): $970 (metro FY 2026) - The Fair Market Rent set by HUD for the fiscal year 2026 indicates that properties in ZIP 54520 can command a rental price of $970, reflecting the local demand for housing.
Market Rent: $550 (Census ACS) - According to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, the average market rent in this ZIP code is $550, suggesting there is room for growth if landlords align their rents with HUD's FMR guidelines.
Median Home Value: $237,967 - Properties in ZIP 54520 have a median home value of $237,967, which is relatively low compared to urban areas, making it an attractive investment for those seeking to purchase property at a lower cost.
Renter Share: 25.1% - With a significant portion of residents renting their homes, at 25.1%, there is a notable demand for rental properties, indicating a steady stream of potential tenants.
Median Income: $60,031 - The median household income of $60,031 provides insight into the financial capability of local residents, who may find the current market rent affordable but could support higher rents closer to the FMR.

The data points highlight a promising market for real estate investment in ZIP 54520. Investors can leverage the gap between the current market rent and the HUD FMR to increase rental income, while the low median home value offers opportunities for purchasing properties at a lower cost. Given the substantial renter share and the median income level, there is a viable tenant base that can support these adjustments. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code represents a stable and potentially profitable market for investment.

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.