Location: Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR | Metro: Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA 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 | $1,550 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,660 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,120 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,619 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,377 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,596 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,660 | $192,987 | 0.86% | C |
| 2BR | $1,910 | $438,421 | 0.44% | F |
| 3BR | $2,590 | $673,968 | 0.38% | F |
| 4BR | $3,120 | $879,180 | 0.35% | F |
| 5BR | $3,619 | $1,027,435 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for a Section 8 landlord in ZIP 97225, located in West Slope, Oregon, must be carefully considered before making an investment. First, tenant turnover can be a significant issue. The market rent for properties in this area is approximately $1,662, while the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 stands at $2,120. This gap suggests that tenants might be more likely to move when they find higher-paying jobs or other housing opportunities, leading to increased turnover rates.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. With an average Days on Market (DOM) of 35 days, landlords could face periods where their units remain unoccupied. During these times, there would be no rental income coming in, which could impact cash flow and profitability.
Deferred maintenance is also a risk factor. Given the typical home value of $743,418 and a median household income of $114,598, many residents may struggle to afford necessary repairs and maintenance. This could result in a higher need for landlords to cover such costs, potentially reducing profit margins.
However, these risks are balanced by a high renter share of 45.6%. High renter density typically correlates with a greater demand for rental properties, including those utilizing Section 8 vouchers. This demand can help stabilize occupancy rates and mitigate some of the financial risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancy exposure.
In conclusion, the overall risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 97225 is moderate.
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.