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 | $1,060 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,260 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,080 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,500 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,900 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,508 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,683 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,510 | $593,327 | 0.25% | F |
| 3BR | $2,080 | $700,999 | 0.3% | F |
| 4BR | $2,500 | $870,641 | 0.29% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 59846 is located in the tranquil town of Huson, Montana, which boasts a small, tight-knit community of 1,377 residents. This area is characterized by a low density of renters, with only 2.7% of the population leasing their homes, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied environment. The median household income in Huson stands at a robust $70,851, suggesting a middle-class community with a good standard of living. Correspondingly, the median home value in this ZIP code is impressively high at $692,894, reflecting the town's appeal and the overall quality of life it offers.
Moving into the specifics of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 59846 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,200. However, the lack of available market rent data makes it challenging to directly compare the two figures. Despite this gap in information, the high median home value implies that there might be significant demand for rental properties that meet the criteria for Section 8 tenants, given the town's overall affluence and the limited number of rental units currently available.
In terms of investment strategy, ZIP 59846 is likely better suited for a hands-on value-add buyer rather than a hands-off voucher operator. The scarcity of rental properties suggests opportunities for those willing to renovate and manage properties actively. A hands-on approach can capitalize on the town's economic indicators and the potential for attracting tenants who benefit from the Section 8 program, while also addressing the needs of a community that values quality and comfort. For hands-off operators, the limited supply and potentially higher management costs due to the remote location could pose challenges, making this ZIP code less ideal for passive income strategies.
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.