Location: Santa Rosa-Petaluma, CA | Metro: Santa Rosa-Petaluma, 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 | $1,760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,550 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,500 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,740 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,338 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,859 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,248 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,510 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,940 | $420,770 | 0.46% | F |
| 2BR | $2,550 | $554,751 | 0.46% | F |
| 3BR | $3,500 | $795,577 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $3,740 | $999,812 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 95436, Forestville, California, stands at $109,531. When juxtaposed against the market rate rent of $1,937 per month, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), it becomes evident that the average household can indeed manage these costs comfortably. However, the landscape shifts when considering the Housing Choice Voucher program, where the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 95436 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,090.
This means that while market rate rents are slightly below the voucher payment standard, landlords who accept vouchers will receive a higher monthly payment compared to typical market rates. The difference between the market rate and the FMR, although modest at $153 per month, could be significant for landlords looking to maximize their rental income.
In ZIP 95436, 31.9% of the population are renters, with a total population of 5,821. This indicates a relatively small but competitive rental market. Given the affordability gap, where market rates are lower than the FMR, landlords might find themselves in a position where accepting vouchers could offer a stable source of higher income. Moreover, vouchers can provide a steady stream of tenants, reducing vacancy rates and the associated costs.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: accepting vouchers can be financially advantageous, especially if the goal is to ensure consistent, reliable income. While the immediate appeal of cash-paying tenants might seem straightforward, the reality is that the voucher payment standard exceeds the current market rate, making it a compelling strategy to consider.
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.