Location: Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale, CA | Metro: Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale, CA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,110 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,600 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,280 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,794 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,178 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,437 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,600 | $688,376 | 0.38% | F |
| 3BR | $3,300 | $794,212 | 0.42% | F |
| 4BR | $3,690 | $859,693 | 0.43% | F |
| 5BR | $4,280 | $984,316 | 0.43% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP 90303, located in Inglewood, California, within the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale HUD Metro FMR Area, reveals several key points for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The rent math does not work favorably for landlords seeking to maximize profits. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area as of fiscal year 2024 is set at $2230. However, the market rent, measured by the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI), stands at $2,324. This indicates that landlords who aim to stay within HUD guidelines will see their rents fall slightly below the market rate, potentially affecting profitability.
Acquisition in this ZIP code is relatively affordable. The median home value is $783,516, which is lower than some neighboring areas in Los Angeles County. Despite the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the price-cut share being only 0.2%, it suggests that homes are selling quickly and without significant discounts. This could indicate a stable housing market where property values are unlikely to drop sharply, providing a secure investment environment.
Tenant demand is strong in ZIP 90303. With a population of 22,727, 56.9% of residents are renters. This high percentage of renters signals a robust market for rental properties, ensuring that landlords can easily find tenants for their units.
Verdict: While the rent math slightly disadvantages landlords compared to market rates, the overall affordability of acquisitions and the strong tenant demand make ZIP 90303 a viable investment location. The quick sales and low price-cut share suggest stability in property values, offering a balanced approach to real estate investment within the context of Section 8 guidelines.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.