Location: Calaveras County, CA | Metro: Stockton-Lodi, 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 | $1,500 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,600 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,740 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,300 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,828 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,287 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,630 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,862 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,980 | $595,384 | 0.33% | F |
| 3BR | $2,740 | $649,071 | 0.42% | F |
| 4BR | $3,300 | $710,123 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 95236, located in Linden, CA, presents an interesting scenario when analyzed from the perspective of renters. The median income for a household in this area stands at $104,703, according to recent Census ACS data. Given the market rate rent of $1,582, a household would need to allocate approximately 15.1% of their annual income towards housing costs. This percentage, while significant, is generally considered manageable for most households.
However, the situation becomes more complex when comparing the market rate to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,850 for ZIP 95236 in fiscal year 2024. This FMR is used to determine the payment standard for Housing Choice Vouchers, commonly known as Section 8 vouchers. At $1,850, the voucher payment standard is higher than the market rate, which means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers could potentially receive more money per unit than those relying solely on market-rate rents.
In Linden, CA, where 40.7% of the population are renters, the affordability gap between the market rate and the voucher payment standard has implications for landlord competition. The difference of $268 between the market rate and the voucher payment standard suggests that there might be a substantial number of units that could benefit from accepting vouchers. This could provide a competitive edge for landlords willing to participate in the Section 8 program, as it would attract tenants who otherwise might struggle to find affordable housing within their budget.
For landlords considering whether to adopt a voucher versus cash-pay strategy, the key takeaway is clear: accepting Section 8 vouchers can be financially advantageous. It not only helps fill units but also ensures a steady, government-backed rental income that exceeds the current market rate. This strategy can mitigate risks associated with tenant turnover and non-payment, while also aligning with the financial needs of a significant portion of the local rental market.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.