Location: Jackson County, WI | Metro: La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,366 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,862 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,005 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 54644 reveals a unique balance between yield potential and market stability. The Family Monthly Rent (FMR) for Section 8 housing in this area is set at $1380 for fiscal year 2024, while the median home value stands at $333,600. This indicates that the rental income generated through Section 8 is significantly lower compared to the potential market value of properties, suggesting a relatively low yield environment.
Stability metrics paint a more nuanced picture. Only 0.9% of residents are renters, which is unusually low and suggests a predominantly owner-occupied market. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to assess how quickly properties can be leased or sold, but the median household income of $77,143 provides a stable economic foundation, implying that tenants who do rent are likely to have reliable incomes.
Given these factors, ZIP 54644 does not fit neatly into either a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market or a steady-cashflow zone. Instead, it represents an area where the primary appeal lies in its stable economic conditions and low risk of tenant turnover, despite offering modest yields. The low percentage of renters and solid median income suggest a market that favors long-term investment strategies over quick flips or speculative investments.
To summarize, the low FMR relative to the home value indicates limited upside in rental income, while the strong median income and low renter population imply a secure and predictable cash flow environment. Therefore, this ZIP code is best suited for investors seeking stable returns rather than high yields.
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.