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 | $763,188 | 0.25% | F |
| 2BR | $2,550 | $954,307 | 0.27% | F |
| 3BR | $3,500 | $1,299,474 | 0.27% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
2620 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 95465 in Occidental, California, for fiscal year 2024. 1633 represents the average market rent as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, indicating a significant gap between the FMR and actual market rates. 1114760 is the median home value in this area, reflecting a robust housing market that can support higher rental prices. 22.6% is the share of renters in the population, suggesting a moderate demand for rental properties but not overwhelming. 120781 is the median household income, which is relatively low compared to the high cost of living and property values, potentially impacting tenants' ability to afford higher rents. The lack of specific data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut share suggests stability in the real estate market, without frequent fluctuations or prolonged periods of unsold inventory. Given these figures, landlords and small-portfolio investors should be cautious about pricing their units too close to the FMR, as the market rent is significantly lower. However, the strong median home value indicates that there is potential for appreciation in property investments. The verdict on Section 8 participation in Occidental, CA, is that it remains a viable option for landlords willing to accept lower rents in exchange for stable occupancy.
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.