Location: Iron County, WI | Metro: Iron County, WI
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,204 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,468 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,665 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,798 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,200 | $292,781 | 0.41% | F |
| 3BR | $1,490 | $414,723 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54547, encompassing Mercer, Wisconsin, presents a unique blend of rural charm and economic stability. This small community is characterized by its modest housing market and a significant portion of owner-occupied homes. However, the rental market offers insights into potential investment opportunities for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The disparity between the Fair Market Rent and the actual market rent highlights a potential opportunity for investors to enter the rental market at a lower cost while positioning themselves to charge closer to the FMR. With a median home value that reflects a stable housing market and a median income that suggests residents can afford higher rents, landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect a balanced environment where both property appreciation and rental income are possible. The relatively low renter share indicates that there might be room for growth in the rental sector, making it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their real estate investments.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.