Location: Polk County, WI | Metro: Barron 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,891 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,118 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,287 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,401 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,310 | $338,463 | 0.39% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54889 stands out within the county due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a total of 2,837 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate at 19.8%, indicating that homeownership is more prevalent than renting. The median income in this area is $77,143, which is above the national average, and the median home value is $311,237, reflecting a stable housing market.
When analyzing the voucher economics, it becomes apparent that there is a discrepancy between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR for ZIP 54889 is set at $1,000, whereas the Census ACS reports the market rent at $846. This suggests that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers could potentially benefit from higher rents compared to the current market rates, although the difference is not substantial enough to attract a large influx of renters into the program.
The data signature for ZIP 54889 reads as "stable." The high median home value combined with a moderate rental rate indicates that the housing market is unlikely to experience significant fluctuations. Additionally, the median income supports the notion that residents have the financial stability to maintain their living situations, whether through homeownership or renting. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code represents a reliable investment opportunity where the demand for rental properties will likely remain consistent, and the acceptance of Section 8 vouchers can be a strategic decision to ensure occupancy and steady cash flow.
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.