Location: Washakie County, WY | Metro: Big Horn County, WY
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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $345,643 | 0.29% | F |
| 3BR | $1,400 | $452,335 | 0.31% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 82442, located in Ten Sleep, Wyoming, within the Washakie County metro area, presents a unique opportunity for inclusion in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This area serves best as a cash-flow anchor due to the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $990 for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 and the current market rent of $695. The difference of $295 per month provides a substantial cushion for cash flow stability.
The median home value in this ZIP code stands at $371,366, which is relatively low compared to many other areas across the United States. This makes it an attractive option for acquiring properties at a lower cost basis, thereby increasing the potential for positive cash flow once rented out under Section 8 guidelines.
Despite the lack of specific data on price-cut shares and days on market (DOM), the significant gap between FMR and market rents suggests that landlords can maintain competitive pricing while still benefiting from the higher rental subsidies provided by the Section 8 program. This ensures steady cash flow even if there are occasional fluctuations in the local real estate market.
The renter share in ZIP 82442 is 31.0%, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties. With a median income of $61,300, there is a sufficient number of tenants who qualify for the Section 8 housing assistance program. This further supports the viability of using this ZIP code as a cash-flow anchor, as it ensures a stable tenant pool that can consistently pay the subsidized rent.
In summary, ZIP 82442 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The $295 monthly spread between FMR and market rent, combined with the low median home value and moderate renter share, provides a solid foundation for predictable and stable cash flows. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this ZIP code for its ability to enhance financial security within their investment 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.