Location: Vernon County, WI | Metro: La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,299 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,483 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,607 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,510 | $287,367 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 54667 stands at $75,774, which places significant constraints on rental affordability. The market rate for rentals, according to the Census ACS, is $1,006 per month. This figure represents a substantial portion of monthly income for the average household, given that it likely translates to around 30% of their gross earnings, assuming a two-income household.
In contrast, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the government for ZIP code 54667 in fiscal year 2024 is $1,140. This means that for households relying on Section 8 vouchers, they could potentially access properties priced slightly above the market rate. However, the difference between the market rate and the voucher payment standard is only $134, indicating that landlords who accept vouchers will not see a significant increase in rent compared to those who opt for market-rate tenants.
With only 14.4% of the 5,100 population being renters, the competition for tenants is relatively low. However, the affordability gap between the median income and both the market rate and the FMR suggests that many potential renters might struggle to find housing that fits within their budget. Landlords must consider the trade-offs between accepting vouchers, which guarantee timely payments but limit rent increases, and renting to cash-paying tenants, who may offer more flexibility in terms of rent adjustments over time.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: while accepting Section 8 vouchers can provide a steady stream of guaranteed income, the modest difference between voucher rates and market rates means that the financial benefits are limited. Given the low percentage of renters in the area, landlords have the luxury of being selective. They should evaluate whether the security of voucher payments outweighs the potential for higher rents from cash-paying tenants, keeping in mind the overall economic landscape and the specific needs of their property management strategy.
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.