Location: Roosevelt County, MT | Metro: Roosevelt County, MT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,940 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,722 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,858 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of the Section 8 program in ZIP code 59212 reveals a significant opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors due to the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,230, whereas the average market rent, according to Census ACS data, stands at $780. This creates a gap of $450 per month, which translates into a 57.7% difference between the two figures.
This gap makes the ZIP code an attractive yield play for landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers. By renting properties to voucher holders, landlords can charge closer to the FMR rate of $1,230, significantly higher than the open-market rate of $780. This allows them to maximize their rental income while still offering affordable housing options to tenants.
In ZIP code 59212, only 18.8% of residents are renters, indicating a smaller pool of potential tenants compared to areas with higher percentages. However, the median household income of $94,444 suggests that residents have a relatively strong financial standing, which could translate into lower vacancy rates and better tenant reliability. The median home value being listed as N/A might indicate a lack of comprehensive data or a predominantly rental-focused area, which aligns well with the Section 8 opportunity.
Despite the benefits, it's crucial for landlords to understand the operational aspects of accepting Section 8 vouchers. The Housing Authority conducts annual inspections, and there are administrative tasks involved in managing voucher tenants. However, these costs are typically outweighed by the higher rental income received from the government subsidy, which ensures a steady cash flow at a rate above the local market average.
To summarize, the $450 monthly gap between FMR and market rent, along with the higher median income, makes ZIP code 59212 a prime location for landlords looking to leverage the Section 8 program for increased yields. The key is to balance the administrative requirements with the potential for higher returns on investment.
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.