Location: Twin Falls County, ID | Metro: Jerome County, ID 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 | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,110 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,448 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,742 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,961 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,109 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,260 | $251,031 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $1,740 | $356,594 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $2,110 | $420,119 | 0.5% | F |
| 5BR | $2,448 | $519,623 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Twin Falls (83301) serves as the economic and cultural hub of south-central Idaho, anchored by the College of Southern Idaho and a robust agricultural processing sector. The area balances a small-town feel with regional commercial growth, making it a destination for families seeking affordability relative to larger western markets. The presence of major employers like Glanbia Foods provides a steady employment base that supports the local rental ecosystem.
Financially, investors face a significant gap between HUD subsidies and current market rates. The FY2026 Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom unit is set at $1,280, while the prevailing market rent stands at $1,624, leaving a deficit of $344 per month if you strictly cap at the FMR. Meanwhile, median home values are $367,714, and inventory moves relatively slowly with a median of 89 days on market. Because the voucher rate trails the open market, standard Section 8 units here likely do not cash-flow as aggressively as market-rate leases without substantial equity or a lower purchase basis.
With 33.0% of households renting and a median income of $62,647, there is a solid working-class tenant pool. While the income is healthy, it is likely insufficient to comfortably absorb the $1,624 market rent without strain, increasing the demand for housing assistance. Local amenities such as the scenic Centennial Waterfront Park and well-regarded public schools enhance neighborhood stability, appealing to long-term renters who may utilize voucher programs to maintain housing tenure.
The strongest investor angle in 83301 is stability rather than maximum yield. The high median home value compared to the FMR suggests appreciation potential, but the 89-day days-on-market figure indicates a liquidity lag. Investors should view Section 8 here as a risk mitigation strategy—guaranteeing the $1,280 base—rather than a market-rate cash flow play.
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.