Location: Bear Lake County, ID | Metro: Bear Lake County, ID
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,080 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,090 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,749 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,325 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,491 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 83239, located in Bear Lake County, ID, can serve as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The fundamental reason for this classification is the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the actual market rents. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR for the metro area is set at $1,360. However, the current market rent stands at $950, indicating a substantial gap that landlords can leverage.
The difference between these figures means that landlords who participate in the Section 8 program can expect to receive higher rental payments than what the market would typically offer. This is particularly beneficial in an area where the median home value is not available, suggesting that property values might be lower compared to other regions. Thus, landlords can ensure steady, reliable cash flow that exceeds local market rates, which is crucial for maintaining financial stability within their investment portfolios.
Moreover, the renter share in ZIP 83239 is 4.9%, and the median income is $85,000. While these factors do not directly influence the cash-flow anchor status, they provide additional context. The relatively low renter share indicates a primarily owner-occupied market, which could mean less competition for rental properties. Additionally, the median income figure suggests that residents have the financial capability to contribute to the Section 8 program, ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of non-payment.
In conclusion, ZIP 83239 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor due to the favorable spread between the HUD-set FMR and the local market rents. This positioning allows landlords to secure higher rental incomes while mitigating risks associated with lower property values and a stable tenant population capable of contributing to the program.
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.