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 | $2,160 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,410 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,220 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,895 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,482 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,921 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $6,217 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,410 | $381,468 | 0.63% | D |
| 2BR | $2,970 | $516,137 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $3,770 | $787,190 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $4,220 | $898,311 | 0.47% | F |
| 5BR | $4,895 | $987,181 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 90502, West Carson, CA, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2490. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, not the actual rent you will receive. The Housing Authority determines the rent based on this standard, but your payments will be adjusted according to the tenant's income.
To put this into perspective, the local Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI) for ZIP 90502 is currently at $3,233. This means that if you were renting without the Section 8 program, you could potentially charge more than the FMR. However, the Section 8 program caps your rent at the FMR level, which is designed to ensure affordability for low-income tenants.
The demand for rental properties in West Carson is strong, with 32.0% of residents being renters. This indicates a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing, creating a steady market for Section 8 properties. If you're considering acquiring a property to participate in the Section 8 program, the median home value in the area is around $742,924, which should factor into your decision-making process regarding potential returns and investment costs.
Before you proceed with your first Section 8 rental, it's crucial to verify that the property meets all the required standards. Specifically, ensure that the unit passes the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection. This inspection is mandatory and checks for basic livability and safety conditions. It covers issues such as heating, plumbing, structural integrity, and overall cleanliness, among other criteria.
In conclusion, while the FMR sets a cap on the rent you can charge, the high local rental rates and substantial renter share suggest a viable market for Section 8 rentals in West Carson. With careful consideration of the property's value and ensuring it meets HQS, you can make an informed decision about whether participating in the Section 8 program is right for you.
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.