Location: Uintah County, UT | Metro: Duchesne County, UT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis for ZIP code 84052 is based on the significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR is set at $1,100, while the market rent, according to Census ACS data, stands at $790. This represents a gap of $310, or approximately 39%, between what landlords can charge through Section 8 vouchers and the prevailing market rate.
In this scenario where the FMR exceeds the market rent, the ZIP code presents itself as a yield play for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The higher FMR allows landlords to receive a subsidy that effectively increases their rental income above the local market average. This means that landlords can achieve better yields without significantly increasing the rent they charge tenants, thus maintaining affordability for voucher holders.
However, it's important to anchor this analysis within the broader context of ZIP 84052. With 21.8% of residents being renters and a median household income of $59,167, the area has a notable population of individuals who could benefit from the lower market rents. The lack of data on median home values suggests a focus on the rental market rather than homeownership, which further supports the viability of the Section 8 program in this area.
The key point for investors is that the $1,100 FMR provides a cushion against the lower market rent, allowing them to secure a more stable and potentially higher income stream. This is particularly valuable given the financial constraints many residents face, as evidenced by the relatively low median income compared to the FMR. Therefore, the discrepancy between FMR and market rent makes ZIP 84052 an attractive location for those looking to leverage the Section 8 program for better investment returns.
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.