Location: Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL | Metro: Chicago-Joliet-Naperville, IL 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 | $2,090 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,220 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,510 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,280 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,794 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,178 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,437 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,220 | $158,454 | 1.4% | A |
| 2BR | $2,510 | $326,784 | 0.77% | D |
| 3BR | $3,230 | $447,438 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $3,690 | $585,220 | 0.63% | D |
| 5BR | $4,280 | $787,406 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $2070 for zip code 60561 in Darien, IL, for fiscal year 2024, landlords can expect a solid benchmark for setting rental prices. The market rent, as measured by ZORI, stands at $2,263, indicating a slight premium over the FMR. This premium is supported by a median home value of $449,921, reflecting the affluent nature of the area. In Darien, 20.3% of residents are renters, suggesting a balanced mix between homeowners and tenants. The median income of $112,549 further underscores the financial stability of the local population, making it an attractive market for rental properties. A days on market (DOM) average of 12 days shows that properties are quickly leased, reducing vacancy periods and increasing cash flow efficiency. The low price-cut share of 0.2% indicates that landlords who set their rents close to the market rate rarely need to reduce prices to attract tenants. Given these figures, Darien, IL, presents a favorable environment for Section 8 housing, with the program's rental limits closely aligning with the local market conditions.
Darien's strong economic indicators and quick leasing times make it a prime location for Section 8 properties. Landlords should note that while the FMR is slightly below the market rent, the stable income levels and high median home values suggest that tenants will find the area desirable. The minimal need for price adjustments also points to a robust demand for rental units, ensuring steady occupancy rates. As such, investing in Section 8 properties in Darien is a prudent decision, leveraging the existing economic strength and tenant demand.
Verdict: Darien, IL, is a suitable market for Section 8 investments, with strong economic fundamentals and quick leasing cycles supporting property performance.
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.