Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 59927 - 2027

Location: Flathead County, MT | Metro: Flathead County, MT

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$1,390
1 Bedroom	$1,410
2 Bedrooms	$1,770
3 Bedrooms	$2,400
4 Bedrooms	$2,800
5 Bedrooms	$3,248
6 Bedrooms	$3,638
7 Bedrooms	$3,929
8 Bedrooms	$4,125

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

270

Median Household Income

$58,713

Housing Units

158

Renter Percentage

29.5%

Occupancy Rate

81.6%

Renter Occupied

The ZIP code 59927, located within the Flathead County, MT metro area, presents a unique profile when compared against typical ZIP codes within the same county. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,710 for the fiscal year 2026, it aligns closely with the broader metro area's rental standards. However, its market rent of $731 stands out as significantly lower, indicating that properties in 59927 are more affordable on the open market.

The median home value of $548,907 is notably higher than what might be expected in a typical ZIP code within Flathead County. This suggests that while the area may not be a value pocket in terms of home ownership costs, it could be attractive to those seeking to invest in higher-value properties. The discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent also points towards potential opportunities for landlords who can leverage the difference between government-assisted rents and market rates.

A key feature of ZIP 59927 is its 29.5% renter share, which is a substantial portion of the housing market. This percentage is indicative of a vibrant rental sector, possibly due to the presence of Section 8 housing. The combination of a high renter share with relatively lower market rents compared to the FMR and higher home values suggests that this ZIP code could be particularly appealing to landlords interested in Section 8 tenants. It represents a sweet spot where there is a significant demand for rental properties, potentially supported by government subsidies, without the burden of extremely high property acquisition costs.

To further contextualize 59927's position within the Flathead County, MT metro, consider the following:

Market Rent: At $731, it is below the typical range for the county, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious renters.
FMR: The $1,710 figure reflects the broader metro area's rental cost standards, but the actual market rent being lower indicates a gap that landlords can exploit.
Home Value: The $548,907 median home value is above average, suggesting a higher-end market segment for homeownership.
Renter Share: The 29.5% proportion of renters is higher than many other ZIP codes, signaling a robust rental market, likely bolstered by Section 8 participation.

In summary, ZIP 59927 is best categorized as a premium sub-market within the Flathead County, MT metro, characterized by its higher home values and significant renter population. Its below-average market rent combined with a high renter share makes it a prime location for landlords looking to attract Section 8 tenants, while still maintaining investment value in the local real estate market.

Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.