Location: Clatsop County, OR | Metro: Clatsop County, OR
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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,920 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,320 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,691 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,255 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,418 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,060 | $342,109 | 0.31% | F |
| 2BR | $1,390 | $408,569 | 0.34% | F |
| 3BR | $1,920 | $499,963 | 0.38% | F |
| 4BR | $2,320 | $557,005 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $2,691 | $596,747 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 97103 in Astoria, Oregon, reveals a competitive landscape where the Federal Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD at $1,500 for fiscal year 2026 falls below the current market rent index (ZORI) of $1,714. This discrepancy means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers will experience marginal cash flow at the FMR rate, as it does not fully cover the average market rent. However, landlords can achieve positive cash flow by offering premium units that command higher rents or by strategically negotiating lease terms that reflect market conditions.
To further contextualize this situation, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $474,545. The rent-to-price ratio, calculated by dividing the ZORI by the median home value, comes to approximately 0.36%. This low ratio suggests that rental income is relatively modest compared to property values, indicating a strong preference for homeownership over renting in this market. For investors looking to capitalize on the rent-vs-buy dynamics, it's worth noting that the 30-day median Days on Market (DOM) and the 0.2% share of listings experiencing price cuts underscore a stable housing market, with properties selling quickly and without significant discounts.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 97103 is stability. Given the quick sales pace and minimal price adjustments, investors can expect consistent returns and limited risk in maintaining their property investments, whether through rental income or appreciation in property value.
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.