Location: Missoula, MT | Metro: Missoula, MT 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 | $1,280 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,560 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,080 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,573 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,002 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,322 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,538 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,840 | $462,638 | 0.4% | F |
| 3BR | $2,550 | $582,229 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $3,080 | $705,310 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $3,573 | $806,144 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 59803, located in Missoula, MT, falls within the Missoula, MT HUD Metro FMR Area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 59803 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,300. This figure is significantly lower than the market rent of $1,956, indicating that this area offers rental properties at a discount compared to the broader market. The median home value in 59803 is $631,791, which is higher than the average home value in the Missoula, MT HUD Metro FMR Area.
The renter share in 59803 is 28.9%, which is notably above the average renter share across typical ZIP codes within the Missoula, MT HUD Metro FMR Area. This suggests a higher concentration of renters in 59803 relative to other areas within the metro. The combination of a below-market FMR of $1,300 and a relatively high renter share makes 59803 an attractive option for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to serve tenants eligible for Section 8 housing assistance.
In comparison to other ZIP codes within the Missoula, MT HUD Metro FMR Area, 59803 stands out as a value pocket due to its lower FMR and higher renter share. Despite the premium on home values, the disparity between the FMR and market rent, along with the significant portion of renters, positions 59803 as a strategic location for those seeking to capitalize on the demand for affordable rental housing.
Landlords and investors should note the following:
The data points clearly indicate that ZIP 59803 presents a unique opportunity within the Missoula, MT HUD Metro FMR Area. Its characteristics suggest it could be a sweet spot for Section 8 investments, offering both affordability for tenants and a robust rental market for property owners.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.