Location: Appleton, WI | Metro: Appleton, 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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,100 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,940 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,529 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,059 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,212 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,940 | $437,852 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $2,180 | $503,572 | 0.43% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 54942, located within the Appleton, WI MSA, presents a unique profile when compared to typical ZIP codes within the same metropolitan area. Its Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 2024 is set at $1,130, which closely aligns with the market rent of $1,197. The median home value in 54942 is $462,044, reflecting a middle-ground scenario among the various ZIP codes in the Appleton, WI MSA.
A key distinguishing factor is the renter share of 9.5%, which suggests that a relatively small proportion of residents are renters. This figure is lower than what might be expected in a value pocket, where higher renter shares are common due to affordability concerns. However, it also does not indicate a premium sub-market, which typically has a higher renter share and significantly higher home values.
Given the specific figures, 54942 appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood within the Appleton, WI MSA. The FMR and market rent are fairly close, indicating that rental prices are reflective of the fair market standards established by HUD. This makes it a stable market for both landlords and small-portfolio investors who are looking for areas with reasonable returns without the volatility associated with either very low or very high-end markets.
The median home value of $462,044 is indicative of a moderate price point, suggesting that homeownership is accessible but not cheap. For landlords, this means that property acquisition costs are also moderate, balancing the potential for capital appreciation against the cost of entry.
In summary, 54942 offers a balanced opportunity within the Appleton, WI MSA. It is neither a value pocket nor a premium sub-market, but rather a neighborhood that provides stability and reasonable investment returns. Investors should consider this ZIP code as part of their broader portfolio strategy if they seek areas with predictable performance and moderate risk.
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.