Location: Bakersfield-Delano, CA | Metro: Bakersfield-Delano, CA MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,270 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,213 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,599 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,887 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,081 |
The economics of Section 8 in ZIP code 93385, located in Bakersfield-Delano County, California, are straightforward. The SAFMR (Small Area Fair Market Rent) for a two-bedroom apartment is set at $1260 for the fiscal year 2024. This rate is specific to this ZIP code, meaning it reflects the rental conditions unique to 93385.
Section 8 vouchers aim to cover the majority of a tenant's rent, but not all. The voucher payment is calculated based on the SAFMR and the tenant's ability to pay, which is typically 30% of their adjusted monthly income. For example, if a tenant's adjusted monthly income is $1000, they would be responsible for paying $300 towards the rent. The remaining amount up to the SAFMR would be covered by the voucher program.
To illustrate further, let’s assume the tenant’s portion is $300. The voucher would then pay the difference between the tenant’s contribution and the SAFMR. In this case, the voucher would pay $960 ($1260 - $300 = $960).
In addition to the base rent, there are utility allowances. These allowances vary by region and can affect the total reimbursement. However, since the local market rent for ZIP 93385 is listed as N/A, we cannot provide a direct comparison to see if the SAFMR is above or below the market rate.
The typical reimbursement gap or surplus for a two-bedroom apartment in ZIP 93385 can be determined by comparing the SAFMR to the actual market rent. Given the SAFMR of $1260 and the lack of available market rent data, landlords should expect the voucher reimbursement to be fixed at $1260 minus the tenant’s contribution. If the market rent is higher than $1260, landlords will face a gap. Conversely, if the market rent is lower, landlords will have a surplus.
Landlords must understand that the SAFMR is the ceiling for reimbursement, regardless of the actual market rent. Therefore, the reimbursement will always be capped at $1260 for a two-bedroom unit, with the exact amount depending on the tenant’s income. Landlords should also consider that utility allowances are part of the overall payment structure, but these amounts are not specified here.
In summary, landlords in ZIP 93385 should anticipate receiving a voucher reimbursement of up to $1260 per month for a two-bedroom apartment, adjusted by the tenant’s income. The precise reimbursement will depend on the tenant’s financial situation, leading to either a surplus or a gap compared to the actual market rent.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027).
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.