Location: Polk County, WI | Metro: Polk 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 | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,950 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,262 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,533 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,736 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,873 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,280 | $354,317 | 0.36% | F |
| 3BR | $1,640 | $446,362 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54810, located in Balsam Lake, WI, stands out within Polk County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 2,849 residents, only 15.0% of whom rent their homes, it indicates a predominantly owner-occupied area. The median household income in this ZIP code is $69,917, which is relatively high compared to the national average, suggesting a prosperous community. Additionally, the median home value is impressively high at $400,463, reflecting the area's desirability and robust real estate market.
When it comes to Section 8 housing, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,270, while the actual market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $1,003. This discrepancy means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers can potentially receive higher rental payments than the current market rate, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their returns. However, the low percentage of renters suggests that demand for rental properties might be limited, which could impact the number of Section 8 tenants seeking accommodation in ZIP 54810.
The data signature for ZIP 54810 reads as stable. The high median income and home values indicate a strong local economy and a preference for homeownership among residents. While the Section 8 voucher program offers a financial advantage to landlords, the overall environment is characterized by steady conditions rather than transitional dynamics. This stability is likely to continue, barring significant changes in the local job market or housing policies.
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.