Location: Oshkosh-Neenah, WI | Metro: Oshkosh-Neenah, WI MSA
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 | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,105 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $850 | $152,657 | 0.56% | F |
| 2BR | $1,090 | $196,652 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $240,675 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $1,500 | $256,935 | 0.58% | F |
| 5BR | $1,740 | $257,383 | 0.68% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
To integrate ZIP 54902, located in Oshkosh, WI, into a Section 8 portfolio strategy, one must consider several key metrics that define its economic environment and housing market dynamics. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 54902 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $910, while the average market rent stands at $1,194. This indicates a spread of $284 between the FMR and the market rent.
The median home value in ZIP 54902 is $229,454, which is relatively affordable compared to many metropolitan areas. However, the ZIP code has a low 0.1% price-cut share and an N/A-day days on market (DOM), suggesting that the housing market here is stable and not heavily influenced by frequent price adjustments or long periods of unsold inventory. This stability makes it less of an appreciation play, as there isn't significant evidence of rapidly rising property values.
ZIP 54902 can be best categorized as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio. The substantial gap between the FMR and the market rent means that landlords can secure tenants through the Section 8 program while still achieving a positive cash flow. Specifically, landlords can expect to cover their costs and generate additional income, given that the FMR is below the market rent by $284 per month.
A cash-flow anchor is essential for any investment portfolio, providing consistent and reliable income streams. In ZIP 54902, the median income of $65,612 supports the presence of a viable tenant pool that qualifies for Section 8 assistance. Additionally, with a 38.0% renter share, there is a notable portion of the population already accustomed to renting, further solidifying the potential for steady occupancy rates.
In summary, ZIP 54902 serves as a strong cash-flow anchor due to its favorable rent-to-market ratio and stable housing market conditions. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should focus on leveraging this ZIP code's characteristics to ensure a dependable income source within their Section 8 portfolios.
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.