Location: San Francisco, CA | Metro: San Francisco, 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 | $3,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,620 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,460 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,830 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $7,610 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $8,523 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $9,205 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $9,665 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $3,620 | $686,112 | 0.53% | F |
| 2BR | $4,460 | $1,192,285 | 0.37% | F |
| 3BR | $5,830 | $2,038,691 | 0.29% | F |
| 4BR | $6,560 | $2,510,084 | 0.26% | F |
| 5BR | $7,610 | $2,765,716 | 0.28% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 94030, which covers Millbrae, California, is set at $4030 for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program. It's important to note that this is not the actual rent you will receive; it's the benchmark used by the government to ensure that rents are reasonable.
In comparison, the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), which reflects the average rent for similar properties in the area, is currently at $3,794. This suggests that the FMR is slightly higher than what you might typically see on the market, potentially making your property more attractive to tenants who qualify for Section 8 assistance.
The demand for rental properties in Millbrae is strong, with 39.2% of residents being renters. This high percentage indicates a significant portion of the population looking for housing, which can translate into a steady stream of potential tenants interested in your Section 8 property. However, to acquire a property in this area, you should be prepared to invest around $2,081,735, based on recent median home values.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental, verify that the property meets all necessary safety and maintenance standards as required by the program. These standards are designed to ensure that the living conditions are suitable for tenants and include items such as smoke detectors, functional heating systems, and structural integrity. Ensuring compliance upfront will save you time and money in the long run.
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.