Location: Sawyer 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 | $960 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,926 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,447 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,260 | $247,879 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $1,500 | $313,864 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 54896 is situated in the tranquil town of Winter, Wisconsin. With a modest population of 1,635, it stands out as a quiet residential area where the majority of residents own their homes, with only 13.7% being renters. The median household income in this ZIP code is $61,080, reflecting a middle-class community. Homes here are valued at a median of $230,565, indicating a stable local real estate market.
The economic landscape of Winter, WI, is particularly interesting when viewed through the lens of Section 8 investment. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,210, while the current market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $933. This discrepancy presents an opportunity for landlords who can leverage the higher FMR rates offered by the government to secure steady rental income.
Given these conditions, ZIP 54896 could be well-suited for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For those seeking a low-maintenance investment strategy, the consistent demand for affordable housing and the guaranteed payment through the Section 8 program make it a viable option. On the other hand, for investors willing to actively manage properties, there's potential to renovate and increase the value of homes, aligning them better with the higher FMR rates. Both approaches can yield positive returns, but the choice depends on the investor's willingness to engage in property management.
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.