Location: Sanders County, MT | Metro: Flathead 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 | $1,150 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,170 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,970 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,326 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,592 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,772 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,170 | $168,072 | 0.7% | D |
| 2BR | $1,530 | $243,589 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $2,010 | $358,204 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 59845, located in Hot Springs, MT, stands out within the Sanders County, MT metro area based on several key metrics. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,480, while the actual market rent in ZIP 59845 is significantly lower at $723. This suggests that 59845 is offering rental units at a substantial discount compared to the broader metro average, making it a potential value pocket for landlords and investors looking to maximize returns.
The median home value in ZIP 59845 is $264,085, which is notably below the typical home values in other ZIP codes within Sanders County. This lower price point combined with the relatively high renter share of 30.8% indicates that there could be an opportunity for landlords who cater to tenants eligible for Section 8 assistance. A higher proportion of renters alongside lower home values often points to areas where subsidized housing can thrive, benefiting both tenants and landlords who can secure stable, government-backed rental income.
To further contextualize, let's consider the implications of these figures. With a market rent nearly half of the FMR, landlords in ZIP 59845 might find themselves in a unique position to attract both low-income tenants and those receiving federal housing subsidies. The high renter share also implies a strong demand for rental properties, which can be advantageous for landlords in terms of occupancy rates and tenant retention.
In summary, ZIP 59845 appears to be a value pocket within the Sanders County, MT metro area, characterized by below-average home values and market rents, yet with a significant portion of its residents being renters. This combination makes it a particularly attractive location for landlords interested in Section 8 properties, where they can potentially offer affordable housing options while still maintaining profitability.
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.