Location: Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | Metro: Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, 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 | $1,530 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,600 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,990 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,630 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,170 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,677 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,118 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,447 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,669 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,600 | $280,483 | 0.57% | F |
| 2BR | $1,990 | $815,000 | 0.24% | F |
| 3BR | $2,630 | $1,112,272 | 0.24% | F |
| 4BR | $3,170 | $2,473,151 | 0.13% | F |
| 5BR | $3,677 | $4,499,004 | 0.08% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 92210, Indian Wells, CA, is set at $1580 for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can receive through the Section 8 program for renting out a unit. It's important to note that this is not the actual rent you will charge your tenants; it's the reimbursement limit under the program.
To put this into perspective, consider the local market where the average rent for a similar property might be around $8,000 per month. This means that the FMR of $1580 is significantly lower than the typical market rate, which can make it challenging to manage properties exclusively on Section 8 payments. However, the program also aims to ensure that low-income families have access to decent housing, and the reimbursement is designed to cover a substantial portion of the rent.
The demand for Section 8 rentals in Indian Wells is reflected in the fact that 20.2% of renters rely on such assistance. This indicates a steady pool of potential tenants who qualify for the program. If you decide to participate, you should be aware that the initial investment to acquire a property suitable for Section 8 tenants could be around $1,441,709, based on the average property value in the area.
Before proceeding with your first Section 8 rental in Indian Wells, verify that the property meets all the necessary requirements for the program. This includes ensuring the property complies with the Housing Quality Standards (HQS), which are federal standards that all Section 8 units must meet. These standards cover basic safety and habitability conditions, such as having functional plumbing and electrical systems, and being free from health hazards.
In summary, while the FMR of $1580 is lower than the typical market rent of $8,000, the consistent demand from qualified renters and the opportunity to serve a community need can make Section 8 participation a viable option. Just ensure your property meets HQS before signing up.
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.