Location: San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA | Metro: San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA 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 | $2,960 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,150 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,810 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,050 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,110 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $7,088 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $7,939 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $8,574 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $9,003 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $3,810 | $602,864 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $5,050 | $779,432 | 0.65% | D |
| 4BR | $6,110 | $990,742 | 0.62% | D |
| 5BR | $7,088 | $1,235,512 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 91915 in Chula Vista, CA, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $4080. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers, meaning that if you participate in the program, the government will pay up to $4080 per month for a rental unit in this area. However, it's important to note that this is not necessarily the amount you will receive as rent; it's the maximum reimbursement rate.
To put this into perspective, consider that the typical market rent for a two-bedroom apartment in this ZIP code is around $3,156, according to the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI). This indicates that the FMR is higher than the average market rent, which can be beneficial for landlords who want to ensure they receive a competitive rate for their property.
The 28.6% renter share suggests that nearly three out of ten households in the area are renters, indicating a strong demand for rental properties. This high percentage of renters can translate into a robust tenant pool, making it easier to fill your rental units and maintain occupancy rates.
If you're considering purchasing a property to use as a Section 8 rental, the median home value in the area is approximately $860,954. This figure reflects the acquisition cost of a typical home in this ZIP code, and it's important to factor this into your investment strategy. Given the high FMR and strong rental demand, the potential for steady income exists, but it's crucial to understand the ongoing costs and maintenance responsibilities associated with Section 8 rentals.
Before you decide to enter the Section 8 market, verify that your property meets the required quality standards set by HUD. This includes passing an inspection that ensures your rental unit is safe, decent, and sanitary. This step is critical because failing to meet these standards can result in your property being ineligible for the program, leading to financial losses.
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.