Location: Humboldt County, CA | Metro: Humboldt County, CA
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 | $1,070 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,060 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,877 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,222 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,480 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,654 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,490 | $292,450 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A decision tree analysis for ZIP code 95573 in California regarding Section 8 investments reveals critical insights. The first question to address is whether the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,570 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 can cover the debt service on a property valued at $310,732. This requires knowing the specific mortgage terms and interest rates applicable to the property. Assuming a typical 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with an interest rate of around 5%, the monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $1,680. Given that the FMR does not exceed this amount, the answer is No: the FMR does not clear the debt service.
The second question pertains to the relationship between the FMR and the market rent. However, the market rent is listed as N/A, indicating that there is insufficient data to make a comparison. Without this information, we cannot determine if the market rent is above, at, or below the FMR. Therefore, the answer is It Depends: further investigation into local rental market conditions is necessary.
The third question addresses demand by examining the percentage of renters and the days on market (DOM). In ZIP 95573, 37.9% of residents are renters, which is a significant portion but not exceptionally high. Additionally, the DOM is also listed as N/A, making it impossible to gauge how quickly properties are rented out. Based on the available data, the answer is It Depends: while there is a notable share of renters, the lack of DOM data means we cannot assess the urgency of demand.
To summarize:
Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider these factors carefully before deciding to invest in ZIP 95573 under Section 8 guidelines. Additional local market analysis and specific property details are essential to make an informed decision.
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.