Location: Winona County, MN | Metro: La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,110 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,995 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,234 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,534 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,110 | $222,848 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $1,440 | $266,860 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $1,720 | $346,412 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP 55971 (Rushford Village, MN, Winona County, MN metro) does not work favorably for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $980, whereas the market rent as per Census ACS data is $883. This discrepancy suggests that landlords may struggle to achieve the FMR without facing vacancy risks, given the lower actual market rent.
Acquisition in this area is relatively affordable. With a median home value of $272,161, purchasing properties is accessible for small-portfolio investors. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that required a price cut indicates that the local real estate market's dynamics are unclear. This ambiguity could pose challenges in accurately assessing property acquisition costs and timelines.
Tenant demand in ZIP 55971 is modest. The total population is 3,018, with 20.4% being renters. This translates to approximately 616 rental units in demand. While there is a need for rental housing, the limited size of the rental market might restrict opportunities for significant portfolio growth.
Verdict: In ZIP 55971, the rent math does not align well with the landlord's favor, as the FMR exceeds the actual market rent. Acquisition appears affordable, but the lack of detailed market data introduces uncertainty. Tenant demand is present but limited, suggesting a niche opportunity rather than a large-scale investment potential. Landlords should proceed cautiously, focusing on properties that can be rented close to the market rate to ensure occupancy and avoid financial strain.
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.