Location: Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ | Metro: Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, AZ MSA
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 | $1,240 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,330 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,270 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,633 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,185 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,344 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,330 | $147,033 | 0.9% | C |
| 2BR | $1,550 | $257,628 | 0.6% | D |
| 3BR | $2,040 | $335,126 | 0.61% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Sun City, Arizona, located in ZIP code 85351, stands out among other areas in Maricopa County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 27,592, only 14.3% of residents rent their homes, indicating a strong preference for homeownership. The median income in Sun City is $53,725, which is relatively modest compared to the median home value of $277,321. This suggests that while homeownership is prevalent, it may require significant financial commitment from residents.
The voucher economics in Sun City are particularly noteworthy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,720, which is higher than the market's ZORI (Zillow Rent Index) figure of $1,661. This means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can expect slightly higher rental payments than the average market rate, making it a financially viable option for those willing to participate in the program. However, the low percentage of renters in the area could indicate a smaller pool of potential tenants using vouchers.
The data signature for ZIP code 85351 reads as stable. The high median home value and low rental rates suggest a mature community where most residents own their homes. The slight increase in FMR over ZORI indicates a balanced market condition for voucher holders, without signaling any significant transitional trends. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider these factors when evaluating the potential benefits and challenges of accepting Section 8 vouchers in Sun City.
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.