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 | $1,130 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,260 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,958 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,578 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,757 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,620 | $240,589 | 0.67% | D |
| 3BR | $2,240 | $385,330 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $2,550 | $449,535 | 0.57% | F |
| 5BR | $2,958 | $547,592 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 85715 in Tucson, Arizona, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1500. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, which is a federal subsidy designed to help low-income families afford housing. It's important to note that this is the payment standard set by the government, not the actual rent you would charge.
Comparatively, the local Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) for ZIP 85715 is $1,517. This indicates that the market rent is slightly higher than the FMR, suggesting that landlords participating in Section 8 might receive a bit less than the average market rate for similar properties.
The 28.2% renter share in this area highlights a significant portion of the population who rely on rental housing, indicating strong demand for rentals. With a median home value of approximately $377,669, it's clear that owning a home is not feasible for many individuals in this income bracket, making rental properties, especially those under Section 8, highly sought after.
Before proceeding with your first Section 8 rental property in ZIP 85715, ensure that the property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards are set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and must be satisfied to qualify for the program. This includes everything from basic safety features to structural soundness. Verification of these standards will prevent any issues down the line and ensure compliance with the program requirements.
In summary, while the FMR of $1500 may be lower than the market rent, the strong demand indicated by the 28.2% renter share and the high median home value make Section 8 rentals a viable option. The key to success lies in ensuring your property meets the necessary quality standards.
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.