Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 54603 - 2027

Location: La Crosse-Onalaska, WI | Metro: La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN HUD Metro FMR Area

Investment Score for ZIP 54603

Monthly Rent (2BR)

$1,210

Median Price (2BR)

$201,666

1% Rule

0.6%

Annual Yield

7.2%

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$840
1 Bedroom	$920
2 Bedrooms	$1,210
3 Bedrooms	$1,550
4 Bedrooms	$1,950
5 Bedrooms	$2,262
6 Bedrooms	$2,533
7 Bedrooms	$2,736
8 Bedrooms	$2,873

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
1BR	$920	$152,454	0.6%	D
2BR	$1,210	$201,666	0.6%	D
3BR	$1,550	$235,144	0.66%	D
4BR	$1,950	$257,681	0.76%	D
5BR	$2,262	$294,182	0.77%	D

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

13,738

Median Household Income

$52,012

Housing Units

7,246

Renter Percentage

47.9%

Occupancy Rate

93.8%

Renter Occupied

3,260

The ZIP code 54603, located in La Crosse, Wisconsin, offers a stable and attractive rental market for real estate investors. The area is characterized by a strong demand for rental properties and moderate housing values, making it a favorable location for both landlords and small-portfolio investors.

The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 54603 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1010, indicating the government's benchmark for affordable rental rates in the area.
The actual market rent, as measured by Zillow's ZORI (Zestimate Rent Index), stands at $988, slightly below the FMR but still reflective of a robust rental market.
The median home value in the area is $236,842, which is relatively low compared to many urban centers, providing an opportunity for investors to acquire properties at a reasonable cost.
Renters make up 47.9% of the population in ZIP 54603, demonstrating a significant portion of residents who prefer renting over owning, which supports the ongoing demand for rental units.
While the exact number of days on the market (DOM) is not available, the high renter share suggests that rental properties are typically occupied quickly, reducing idle periods and vacancy costs.
The median household income in the area is $52,012, providing tenants with sufficient financial stability to meet rental obligations and maintain property occupancy rates.

Investors looking to enter the La Crosse rental market should find the combination of affordable property acquisition costs and steady rental demand appealing. The proximity of market rent to the FMR also indicates a balanced market where rents are likely to remain stable. Given the significant renter share and the median income levels, there is a solid foundation for sustained rental activity, making ZIP 54603 a worthwhile consideration for those seeking a reliable investment opportunity.

Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.