Location: Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ | Metro: Sierra Vista-Douglas, 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 | $1,120 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,320 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,150 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,004 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,633 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,150 | $376,769 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,590 | $485,337 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 85615, located in Cochise County within the Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ MSA, highlights a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 85615 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1340, which is significantly higher than the average market rent of $1,091 as reported by the Census ACS.
This $249 difference between the HUD FMR and the actual market rent means that voucher tenants will typically cashflow without requiring premium units. In other words, landlords can expect positive cash flow when renting properties at the HUD FMR rates. To put this into perspective, the median home value in ZIP 85615 is $389,291, leading to a rent-to-price ratio of approximately 0.3%, indicating that rental income is a modest portion of the property's value.
Regarding the days on market (DOM) and price-cut shares, the data shows a median DOM of N/A and a price-cut share of 0.2%. These figures suggest that the local real estate market is stable, with homes selling relatively quickly and without significant price reductions. This stability is beneficial for investors, as it reduces the risk of prolonged vacancies and minimizes the need for aggressive pricing strategies.
In conclusion, the strongest investor angle in ZIP 85615 is cashflow. Given the disparity between HUD FMR and market rents, along with the stable real estate market conditions, investors can secure steady and reliable rental income, making this area particularly attractive for those seeking financial security through their investment properties.
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.