Location: Dunn County, WI | Metro: Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,120 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,270 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,280 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,645 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,199 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,359 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54734 stands out due to its unique combination of low population density and relatively high median home values. With only 772 residents, it has a rental rate of 11.6%, indicating that homeownership is the predominant housing situation. The median income of $71,500 suggests a middle-class community, while the median home value of $281,009 points to a higher-than-average cost of living in the area.
In terms of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 54734 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1270. This is significantly higher than the average market rent of $842, based on Census ACS data. Landlords who accept vouchers in this ZIP code can expect to receive a higher rent payment compared to the typical market rate, which could be beneficial for covering the costs associated with maintaining properties in a potentially more expensive market.
The disparity between the FMR and the market rent indicates a transitional nature of the ZIP code. As the cost of living increases, there may be a growing demand for affordable housing options, making Section 8 vouchers an increasingly important part of the rental landscape. However, the relatively low number of renters and the high median home value suggest that the majority of residents are not likely to be directly affected by changes in rental economics. For those who do rent, though, the availability of vouchers could help stabilize the market and ensure that a portion of the population has access to decent, safe, and sanitary housing.
Given these factors, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the potential for increased voucher usage in their rental strategies. While the overall population is stable, the economic conditions and the significant difference between FMR and market rates point towards a transitional phase where affordability becomes a more pressing issue for some residents.
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.