Location: Del Norte County, CA | Metro: Del Norte County, CA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,190 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,471 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,768 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,989 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,138 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 program in ZIP code 95548 presents a distinct opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors due to the gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR is set at $1,160, while the Census ACS reports the market rent at $1,250. This creates a $90 difference, which equates to a 7.8% gap between what voucher holders can pay and the open-market rental price.
Given that the FMR is lower than the market rent, landlords should be aware of the financial implications of accepting Section 8 tenants. The cost of housing voucher tenants below open-market rates means that landlords will receive $90 less per month compared to renting to market-rate tenants. This discrepancy directly impacts the potential rental yield of properties in this area.
To contextualize this analysis, consider the broader economic landscape of ZIP 95548. Renters constitute 24.9% of the population, indicating a significant portion of the community relies on rental housing. Although the median home value is not available, the median income stands at $43,333. This suggests that many residents might struggle to afford homeownership, further emphasizing the importance of rental properties.
The decision to accept Section 8 tenants involves balancing the stability of guaranteed rental payments against the lower yield. While the income from vouchers is reliable, it is essential to factor in the $90 monthly shortfall when assessing the overall profitability of a property. Landlords must weigh this against other considerations such as the potential for longer tenancies and the benefits of serving a stable segment of the housing market.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.