Location: Bear Lake County, ID | Metro: Bear Lake County, ID
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 | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,441 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,563 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $216,363 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $1,440 | $268,744 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $1,740 | $314,771 | 0.55% | F |
| 5BR | $2,018 | $390,589 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 83254, Montpelier, ID, set at $970 for metro fiscal year 2026, represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for a Section 8 rental unit. This is the payment standard, not the actual rent you would receive. The tenant's portion of the rent is typically the difference between the FMR and the actual rent, subject to certain limits.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in Montpelier, ID, based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, is $543. This means that the FMR is significantly higher than the local average, which could be beneficial if you're looking to cover your costs and make a profit.
With 13.8% of the population being renters, there is a steady demand for rental properties. However, it's important to note that not all renters will qualify for Section 8, so while this percentage indicates potential interest, the actual demand for subsidized housing might be lower.
If you're considering purchasing a property for a Section 8 rental, the median home value in the area is around $278,353. This figure gives you an idea of the acquisition cost, but remember to factor in maintenance, insurance, and other expenses when determining if the FMR will cover your costs.
Before proceeding with a Section 8 rental, ensure you verify the physical condition of the property against HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS). This inspection is mandatory and must be passed before you can participate in the program. It covers essential safety and habitability requirements, so it's crucial to meet these standards to avoid delays or disqualification.
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.