Location: Rusk County, WI | Metro: Rusk County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54819 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Tenant turnover is a significant risk factor, with the market rent at $752 being notably lower than the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $970 for the fiscal year 2026 in the metropolitan area. This gap can lead to higher tenant mobility, making it difficult to maintain consistent occupancy and cash flow.
Vacancy exposure is another concern, as the days on market (DOM) data is currently unavailable. Without this information, it's challenging to predict how long properties might remain vacant between tenants, potentially leading to extended periods without rental income.
Deferred maintenance is also a critical issue, especially when considering the typical home value of $206,665 and the median income of $56,650. The disparity between these figures suggests that residents may struggle to afford necessary repairs, even with assistance from vouchers. Landlords should be prepared for higher maintenance costs and potential delays in keeping properties up to standard.
However, these risks must be weighed against the high renter share in the area, which stands at 20.4%. High renter density typically translates into greater demand for housing vouchers, which can provide a steady stream of qualified tenants willing to pay a portion of their income towards rent. This demand can help mitigate the risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancy rates.
In conclusion, the risks associated with Section 8 investments in ZIP code 54819 are moderate. While there are notable challenges related to tenant turnover and maintenance, the strong demand for rental housing provides a solid foundation for landlords willing to manage these risks effectively.
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.