Location: Navajo County, AZ | Metro: Apache County, AZ
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,638 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 86520, located within the Navajo County, AZ metro area, presents a unique set of characteristics when compared to typical ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 86520 is set at $1,430 for fiscal year 2026, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $716. This indicates that while the federally determined rent threshold for housing assistance is relatively high, the actual market rents are lower, suggesting a potential value pocket for landlords and investors.
The renter share in 86520 stands at 12.4%, which is a significant figure but not necessarily indicative of a large demand for rental properties compared to other ZIP codes in Navajo County. However, the combination of a moderate renter share with a below-metro FMR can be seen as a positive sign for those interested in Section 8 participation. It means that landlords can potentially charge less than the FMR and still attract tenants who qualify for housing assistance, thereby increasing their pool of potential renters without drastically reducing their income.
Note that the home value for 86520 is listed as N/A, which could imply limited data on home values or an absence of significant residential property sales in the area. This lack of data makes it difficult to directly compare home values against the broader Navajo County context. However, given the disparity between the FMR and the market rent, it's reasonable to infer that the overall cost of living and property maintenance might also be lower in 86520 compared to other areas in the metro.
In conclusion, 86520 appears to be a value pocket within the Navajo County, AZ metro. Its below-FMR market rents and moderate renter share make it an attractive location for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to participate in the Section 8 program. The area offers opportunities to balance affordability with stable tenant occupancy rates, making it a strategic choice for those seeking to enter or expand in the affordable housing sector.
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.