Location: Washburn County, WI | Metro: Burnett 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,280 | $319,816 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The web search provides insight into the real estate landscape of Washburn County, WI, revealing that the county has seven different ZIP codes. Comparing ZIP 54871 to other ZIP codes in the county, such as ZIP 54891, helps contextualize its position. According to available data, ZIP 54891 has a median home value of approximately $150,000, which is significantly lower than the $310,822 median home value in ZIP 54871. This supports the inference that ZIP 54871 is a mid-tier neighborhood rather than a value pocket.
The higher FMR of $1,080 in ZIP 54871 contrasts sharply with the lower market rent of $644, suggesting a favorable environment for landlords participating in the Section 8 program. The discrepancy implies that there is room for rental income to increase towards the FMR levels without being out of sync with the local market, thus offering a stable investment opportunity.
Moreover, the 15.4% renter share in ZIP 54871 is indicative of a community where homeownership is still the dominant trend. This characteristic aligns with the notion that ZIP 54871 is neither a prime location for Section 8 properties nor a highly sought-after premium sub-market. Instead, it represents a balanced area where both rental and ownership options coexist, making it a solid choice for diversified real estate investments.
In summary, ZIP 54871 stands as a mid-tier neighborhood within the Washburn County, WI, metro. Its moderate home values and slightly elevated FMR make it an appealing option for landlords interested in the Section 8 program, while its relatively low renter share suggests a strong homeownership base. These factors collectively indicate a stable and moderately valued real estate market, suitable for both long-term and strategic short-term investments.
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.