Location: Medford, OR | Metro: Medford, OR 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 | $1,100 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,270 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,170 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,004 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,633 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,270 | $296,904 | 0.43% | F |
| 2BR | $1,570 | $337,544 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $2,170 | $419,472 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $2,590 | $558,231 | 0.46% | F |
| 5BR | $3,004 | $681,634 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 97502 stands at $83,488, indicating a moderate economic environment that supports a significant 26.7% renter share. This makes it an ideal location for diversifying investment risks, as it offers a stable tenant base without relying solely on high-income areas.
In comparison to other strategies, the cash-flow anchor role is less compelling. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 97502 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,490, while the average market rent is higher at $1,767. The difference between the FMR and market rent suggests a potential challenge in achieving optimal cash flow, especially when considering the median home value of $420,158. Landlords might find it difficult to fully leverage the market rent due to the constraints of Section 8 vouchers.
Regarding appreciation plays, the data shows a 0.2% price-cut share and a 22-day days-on-market (DOM), which indicate a relatively stable market with little volatility. However, these figures do not point to substantial appreciation potential, making it less suitable for an appreciation-focused strategy.
Therefore, ZIP 97502's characteristics align most closely with a diversification strategy. It provides a mix of affordability and stability, ensuring a consistent stream of tenants who can contribute to long-term financial health without the need for significant price adjustments. The presence of a notable renter population also mitigates the risk associated with over-relying on owner-occupied properties.
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.