Location: Washburn County, WI | Metro: Sawyer 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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $307,830 | 0.35% | F |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $412,842 | 0.31% | F |
| 4BR | $1,420 | $564,851 | 0.25% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54843, encompassing Hayward, WI, presents a dynamic rental market with specific characteristics that indicate a balanced but evolving environment. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,050 for the fiscal year 2026 suggests a moderate increase in expected rental values, reflecting steady growth in the area's economic conditions. Currently, the market rent stands at $707, according to Census ACS data, indicating a gap between actual rents and the projected FMR. This disparity signals potential upward pressure on rental prices as the market adjusts to anticipated changes.
The low price-cut share of 0.1% suggests that landlords are generally not having to reduce their asking prices to attract tenants, implying a relatively strong demand for rental properties. However, the lack of day-specific data on Days on Market (DOM) makes it challenging to assess the speed at which rental units are being occupied. Despite this limitation, the median home value of $361,806 provides insight into the overall affordability and desirability of the area for homeownership.
A significant portion of the population in Hayward, WI, is renters, with a 26.2% renter share. This figure points to a substantial group of residents who are likely to continue renting, creating ongoing pressure on the rental market. Long-term, this trend could drive rental prices higher as demand remains steady or increases, especially if the local economy continues to support job creation and population growth.
In summary, ZIP 54843 exhibits signs of a market where demand is currently meeting supply, but there are underlying factors pointing towards future growth in rental prices. The relatively high renter share and the gap between current market rents and the FMR suggest that the rental market is poised to adjust as the area develops further. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this means maintaining competitive pricing and property quality to capitalize on the evolving market dynamics.
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.