Location: Lewis County, ID | Metro: Idaho 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 | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,371 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $302,892 | 0.33% | F |
| 3BR | $1,410 | $376,471 | 0.37% | F |
| 4BR | $1,690 | $422,650 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 83536, located in Kamiah, Idaho, is part of Lewis County and stands out due to its unique data profile. With a total population of 4,444, it has a relatively low rental rate at 16.0%, indicating that the majority of residents are homeowners. The median income in this area is $53,707, which is modest but sufficient for the region's cost of living. The median home value is significantly higher at $332,416, reflecting the strong demand for owner-occupied housing.
When considering the economics of Section 8 vouchers, the data reveals an interesting dynamic. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, while the actual market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $714. This discrepancy means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can potentially charge more than the current market rate, thereby increasing their rental income. However, it also suggests that there might be a challenge in finding enough tenants willing to pay the higher FMR rates.
The data signature for ZIP 83536 reads as stable. The high median home value and low rental rate indicate a preference for homeownership among residents. Additionally, the modest median income and the gap between FMR and market rents suggest that the local economy is not under significant pressure from rising rents, which could otherwise lead to increased tenant mobility and instability. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the potential benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers, as they can help stabilize occupancy rates and provide a steady stream of income, even if it means charging closer to the FMR rather than the current market rate.
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.