Location: McCone County, MT | Metro: Dawson County, MT
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 | $1,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,200 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,110 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,912 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,261 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,522 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,698 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,530 | $180,179 | 0.85% | C |
| 3BR | $2,110 | $257,139 | 0.82% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 59215, located in Circle, MT, within McCone County, stands out due to its relatively low population of 1,015 residents and a modest rental rate of 12.3%. Despite the small number of renters, the median income in the area is a robust $86,000, which contrasts sharply with the median home value of $223,315. This suggests that while the cost of homeownership is significant, the local economy supports a high standard of living.
From an economic standpoint, the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent is considerable. The FMR for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,540, whereas the Census ACS data indicates that the average market rent is only $547. This difference highlights a potential opportunity for landlords who can leverage Section 8 vouchers to secure higher rents. However, it also underscores the challenge of attracting tenants who might find the voucher amount significantly above their budgetary needs.
The data signature for ZIP 59215 reads as stable, with no immediate indicators pointing towards a transitional phase. The high median income and median home values suggest a consistent economic environment where homeownership is valued and affordable for many. The low percentage of renters indicates a preference for owning property over leasing, which could mean that landlords need to be particularly strategic in appealing to those who do rent, possibly through offering amenities or services that align with the higher voucher amounts.
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.