Location: Douglas County, OR | Metro: Douglas 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 | $1,090 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,200 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,170 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,620 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,039 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,404 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,676 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,860 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,570 | $252,340 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $2,170 | $364,683 | 0.6% | F |
| 4BR | $2,620 | $443,124 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 97479, located in Sutherlin, Oregon within the Douglas County metro area, presents a unique profile when compared to typical ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,510. This figure represents the government's benchmark for what is considered fair rental pricing for the area.
In contrast, the actual market rent in ZIP 97479 is listed at $1,301. This indicates that the market rent is slightly below the FMR, suggesting a potential value pocket where landlords can offer competitive rents while still meeting the FMR standards for Section 8 housing. However, it also implies that there might be room for slight rent increases without deterring tenants.
The median home value in 97479 stands at $345,200. This is a critical metric for understanding the overall cost of living and property investment in the area. Home values in this ZIP code are reflective of the broader Douglas County market, indicating that it is neither an exceptionally expensive nor an unusually affordable neighborhood within the metro area.
The renter share in 97479 is 31.3%, which is above the average for many rural areas but not necessarily unusual for a suburban ZIP code. This higher percentage of renters, combined with the lower market rent relative to the FMR, suggests that 97479 could be particularly attractive for landlords participating in the Section 8 program. It aligns with the characteristics of a Section 8 sweet spot, where a significant portion of residents rely on rental assistance, yet the home values remain moderate, making it feasible for both tenants and landlords.
To further contextualize, a comparison with other ZIP codes in Douglas County would reveal if 97479 is indeed a value pocket or simply a mid-tier neighborhood. However, based on the given figures, it appears that 97479 offers a balanced environment for landlords and Section 8 participants, with reasonable rents and home values that do not exceed the county average significantly.
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.