Location: Gooding County, ID | Metro: Boise City, 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 | $1,060 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,260 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,912 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,261 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,522 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,698 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,500 | $270,202 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $2,090 | $386,643 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,510 | $471,070 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Buhl, ID, located in ZIP code 83316, is a modest-sized community with a population of 10,456 residents. The neighborhood features a relatively low percentage of renters at 23.1%, indicating that homeownership is prevalent. Despite this, the median income in Buhl stands at $69,593, which suggests that while not excessively wealthy, the area is economically stable. The median home value of $374,788 reflects a middle-tier housing market, neither too expensive nor too cheap.
Moving into the realm of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 83316 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,180. This figure contrasts sharply with the reported market rent of $915, based on Census ACS data. The discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent indicates a potential opportunity for landlords who can secure Section 8 tenants, as they will likely receive higher rents compared to the local market rate.
For hands-off voucher operators, Buhl presents an attractive option. The stable median income and reasonable median home values suggest that the area can support a steady stream of Section 8 tenants without significant risk. However, the relatively low percentage of renters might mean that competition for these tenants could be high, and landlords should be prepared to manage their properties efficiently to attract and retain Section 8 participants.
A hands-on value-add buyer would also find Buhl appealing. With the potential to increase rents towards the FMR level, such an investor could focus on improving property conditions and amenities to justify higher rental rates. Given the modest size of the community and the economic stability, targeted investments in property upgrades could yield favorable returns over time.
In summary, ZIP 83316 in Buhl, ID, offers a balanced environment for both hands-off and hands-on real estate investors. The key lies in understanding the local rental dynamics and leveraging the disparity between market rents and FMRs to maximize profitability.
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.