Location: Bayfield County, WI | Metro: Bayfield 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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,340 | $276,938 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
22.9% of residents in ZIP 54891 are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population that could benefit from affordable housing options. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, which provides a benchmark for rental properties aiming to attract tenants eligible for Section 8 assistance. In comparison, the actual market rent as per the Census ACS data stands at $825, suggesting that landlords can potentially increase their rents to meet the FMR without significantly deterring eligible tenants.
$266,883 is the median home value in ZIP 54891, reflecting a stable housing market where property values are relatively high but manageable. This figure also implies that homeowners in the area have a considerable investment in their properties, making it less likely for them to be forced into renting due to financial distress, thus maintaining a steady demand for rental units.
$70,536 is the median income for the area, which is important for understanding the economic context of potential Section 8 tenants. Given this income level, many residents would find it challenging to afford market rents without assistance, making Section 8 a viable option for both tenants seeking affordable housing and landlords looking for reliable income sources.
N/A-day DOM (Days on Market) and N/A% price-cut share indicate incomplete data regarding how long properties typically remain on the market and the frequency of price reductions. However, these gaps should not overshadow the clear indicators of a robust rental market supported by the Section 8 program. Landlords can expect a steady stream of qualified applicants who can pay the required portion of the rent based on their income, with the government covering the remainder up to the FMR.
In conclusion, the data points towards a favorable environment for landlords participating in the Section 8 program. With a strong rental market and a significant share of residents needing assistance, the potential for stable occupancy and predictable cash flow is high. The Section 8 program in ZIP 54891 is a solid investment opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors alike.
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.