Location: Waushara County, WI | Metro: Adams County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54930 presents an interesting scenario for real-estate investors looking into Section 8 properties. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,010 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026, compared to a market rent of $821, it suggests a higher potential rental income when leveraging Section 8 contracts. This discrepancy indicates a yield advantage for landlords who can secure these government-backed leases.
The median home value in ZIP 54930 stands at $272,217, which is notably higher than the median household income of $77,692. This implies that the market may struggle with affordability issues, potentially affecting the demand for higher-priced homes. However, the presence of Section 8 can mitigate some of this risk by providing stable tenants who qualify based on income levels.
The rental market in this area is relatively small, with only 12.6% of residents being renters. This low percentage could indicate a less competitive rental market, but also suggests limited overall demand for rental properties. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to assess how quickly properties might be leased, though the Section 8 program typically has a steady flow of applicants.
Based on these figures, ZIP 54930 leans towards a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. The higher FMR compared to market rent supports a consistent income stream, especially valuable for small-portfolio investors. However, the limited rental population and the significant gap between home values and income suggest caution in overestimating the potential for rapid property appreciation or frequent turnover.
To summarize, the key figures driving this assessment are the $1,010 FMR versus the $821 market rent, indicating a yield benefit; the 12.6% renter rate, suggesting stability but limited scale; and the $77,692 median income, highlighting affordability challenges. For those considering investment, focusing on long-term, steady-income properties through Section 8 contracts appears to be the most prudent strategy.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.