Location: Clearwater County, ID | Metro: Clearwater County, ID
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 83546, located within Clearwater County, ID, presents a unique profile when compared to other ZIP codes in the county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 83546 is set at $980 for the fiscal year 2026, which is likely indicative of the average rental cost for a two-bedroom apartment. This figure can be used to assess the attractiveness of the area for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The lack of specific market rent data for ZIP 83546 makes it challenging to directly compare it against non-subsidized rents. However, the home value of $195,393 suggests that the area is moderately priced compared to other ZIP codes in the county. Home values typically influence rental prices, so it's reasonable to infer that market rents might align closely with the FMR if there's little to no significant disparity.
With a renter share of only 1.9%, ZIP 83546 has a lower proportion of renters than what might be expected in a typical Clearwater County, ID ZIP code. This low renter share could imply that homeownership is more prevalent, potentially indicating a less attractive environment for landlords seeking tenants. However, the presence of a Section 8 program with an FMR of $980 could still make the area viable for those willing to participate in subsidized housing programs.
To determine whether 83546 is a value pocket, a mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market, we must consider the interplay between the FMR and the home value. Given the median home value of $195,393 and the FMR of $980, it appears that 83546 could be seen as a mid-tier neighborhood within the Clearwater County, ID metro. The home values suggest that the area is neither extremely affordable nor exorbitantly expensive. While the FMR provides insight into the rental market, the low renter share indicates that the demand for rentals may not be as high as in other areas.
Without additional data on market rents and the distribution of home values across the county, it's difficult to definitively categorize 83546 as a value pocket or a premium sub-market. However, the combination of moderate home values and participation in the Section 8 program with a defined FMR suggests that while it may not be the most lucrative area for landlords, it offers a stable and regulated rental market that can provide consistent returns.
Landlords and small-portfolio investors should note that the low renter share might result in fewer potential tenants overall. Therefore, focusing on the needs of families eligible for Section 8 assistance and ensuring properties meet the necessary standards could be key strategies for success in this ZIP code.
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.