Location: Sweetwater County, WY | Metro: Sweetwater County, WY
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis for ZIP code 82932 is centered around the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR is set at $1,000, while the Census ACS indicates a market rent of $1,165. This creates a gap of $165, which translates to a 16.5% difference between what voucher holders can pay and the open-market rental rates.
Given that the FMR is less than the market rent, landlords and small-portfolio investors should be aware of the financial implications of accepting housing vouchers. The cost of renting to voucher tenants below the open-market rate means a landlord would receive $165 less per unit compared to market rents, potentially impacting overall portfolio yields.
To anchor this analysis, consider the broader economic context of ZIP 82932. Renters constitute 34.9% of the population, indicating a significant demand for rental properties. The median home value stands at $435,303, reflecting a relatively stable housing market. However, the median household income of $87,632 suggests that many residents may struggle to afford market rents without assistance, thus making Section 8 vouchers a crucial part of the rental landscape.
In summary, landlords in ZIP 82932 must weigh the benefits of guaranteed rent payments from the government against the lower rates offered by Section 8 vouchers. While the voucher system ensures a steady stream of income, it also means accepting a lower rent than what the market could bear. This makes it essential for investors to carefully evaluate their property's potential returns and the risks associated with relying on government subsidies.
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.