Location: Roosevelt County, MT | Metro: Daniels 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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $121,272 | 0.9% | C |
| 3BR | $1,410 | $206,239 | 0.68% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 59263, located in Scobey, MT, presents a unique challenge for renters given the local economic conditions and rental market dynamics. The median income for households in this area stands at $53,875, according to the latest Census ACS data. Meanwhile, the market rate for rent is $573. This means that the average household income is insufficient to cover the market rent without significant financial strain.
To further illustrate the affordability gap, consider the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,050 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026. This figure is notably higher than the actual market rate of $573, suggesting that the local rental market is below the federally established benchmark. The discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rate indicates that landlords might be underpricing their units relative to federal standards, which could affect their revenue expectations.
With only 18.2% of the population being renters and a total population of 1,180, the competition among landlords for tenants is relatively low. However, the limited number of renters means that landlords must carefully consider their pricing and tenant selection strategies to ensure steady occupancy and profitability.
The takeaway for landlords in Scobey, MT, is clear: while there is a smaller pool of potential renters, those who do rent are likely to be heavily reliant on housing vouchers to meet their living expenses. Accepting voucher payments can provide a stable source of income, as it aligns with the higher FMR standard and helps renters afford housing despite the lower median income. Landlords should weigh the benefits of accepting vouchers against the administrative requirements and consider how this strategy fits into their broader portfolio management goals.
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.