Location: Clatsop County, OR | Metro: Clatsop County, OR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $960 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,800 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,200 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,552 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,087 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,241 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 97145, located within the Clatsop County, OR metro area, exhibits distinct characteristics when compared against typical ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 97145 is set at $1,430 for fiscal year 2026, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $1,148. This suggests that while subsidized housing rates are higher, the actual rental market is less expensive, indicating a potential value pocket for investors looking to leverage the difference between FMR and market rents.
The absence of home value data for ZIP 97145 could imply several things: either the area is predominantly rental-focused, or there's a lack of available sales data. Given the 21.4% renter share, it leans towards being a primarily rental-focused area. This high percentage of renters combined with the lower market rent figures can signal a sweet spot for Section 8 investors, as it suggests a strong demand for affordable housing in an area where market rents are below the metro average.
To further contextualize, let's consider the broader implications of these figures. In a typical ZIP code within Clatsop County, OR, the FMR and market rents might align more closely. However, in 97145, the discrepancy between the two points to a unique opportunity. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can benefit from renting properties at market rates while receiving higher subsidies from the government, effectively increasing their net income.
The high renter share also indicates a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing, which can be advantageous for maintaining occupancy rates and ensuring steady cash flows. While we do not have comparative data for other ZIP codes within Clatsop County regarding renter shares and market rents, the combination of a high renter share and below-metro market rents in 97145 makes it stand out as a potentially lucrative investment zone for those interested in Section 8 properties.
In conclusion, ZIP 97145 appears to be a value pocket within the Clatsop County, OR metro, offering opportunities for investors to capitalize on the gap between FMR and market rents, along with a substantial renter base that supports the viability of rental investments.
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.