Location: Winona County, MN | Metro: Rochester, 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 | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,080 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,471 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,768 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,989 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,138 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,270 | $252,403 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $1,770 | $302,097 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $2,130 | $383,394 | 0.56% | F |
| 5BR | $2,471 | $497,407 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 55972, located in Saint Charles, MN, stands out within Winona County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 5,434 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate at 16.5%, indicating that homeownership is prevalent. The median income of $98,878 is higher than the national average, suggesting a financially stable community. Additionally, the median home value of $340,692 reflects a significant investment in property ownership.
When examining the voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 55972 is set at $1,110 for fiscal year 2024. This amount is notably above the market rent of $1,011 reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), which indicates a favorable environment for landlords participating in the Section 8 program. Landlords can expect to receive slightly more than the market rate for their properties, potentially leading to increased profitability and stability in rental income.
The data signature for ZIP 55972 suggests a stable environment. The high median income supports a strong local economy, while the relatively low rental rate and high median home value indicate a preference for homeownership among residents. These factors combined create a resilient housing market where both homeowners and landlords can expect steady financial returns. For small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code presents an opportunity to invest in a stable market with a slight premium on rental rates through the Section 8 program.
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.