Location: Tucson, AZ | Metro: Tucson, 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 | $1,440 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,610 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,870 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,782 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,236 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,575 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,804 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,070 | $267,251 | 0.77% | D |
| 3BR | $2,870 | $310,744 | 0.92% | C |
| 4BR | $3,260 | $356,835 | 0.91% | C |
| 5BR | $3,782 | $423,215 | 0.89% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 85629, located in Sahuarita, AZ, falls within the broader Tucson, AZ MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area). To contextualize its position within the metro, let's analyze its key metrics: the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1980 for fiscal year 2024, market rent at $1,996, home value at $338,535, and a renter share of 16.2%.
Comparing these figures to typical ZIP codes within the Tucson, AZ MSA, it's evident that 85629 aligns closely with mid-tier neighborhoods. The FMR and market rent are nearly identical, indicating a stable rental market that is neither undervalued nor overpriced compared to the average Tucson, AZ MSA ZIP code. This suggests that the area is well-integrated into the local housing economy.
The home value of $338,535 is also indicative of a middle-of-the-road property price point within the Tucson metro. It reflects a balance between affordability and quality, making it attractive to a broad range of buyers and investors who are looking for a reasonable investment without the premium associated with higher-value areas.
A notable divergence is the relatively high renter share of 16.2%. While this percentage alone does not necessarily indicate a Section 8 sweet spot, when combined with the home values and rents being slightly below the metro average, it can suggest a potential value pocket for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 properties. The high proportion of renters in an area with moderate home values and rents often signifies a market where subsidized housing can be effectively utilized.
In summary, ZIP 85629 appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood within the Tucson, AZ MSA, with some characteristics that could make it appealing as a value pocket for those focused on Section 8 investments. The combination of moderate rents and home values alongside a higher-than-average renter share points towards an area that balances accessibility and opportunity for investors.
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.