Location: Medford, OR | Metro: Grants Pass, 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 | $1,400 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,610 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,300 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,828 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,287 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,630 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,862 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,610 | $383,080 | 0.42% | F |
| 2BR | $2,000 | $468,142 | 0.43% | F |
| 3BR | $2,770 | $640,371 | 0.43% | F |
| 4BR | $3,300 | $782,940 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $3,828 | $912,322 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The renter's landscape in ZIP 97530, Jacksonville, OR, is defined by a median household income of $89,239 and a market rate rent of $1,629. This suggests that while rent is not exorbitant, it represents a significant portion of the average household budget. Specifically, the monthly market rent of $1,629 equates to approximately 18.3% of the median annual income when considering only gross income, without adjustments for expenses or taxes.
In comparison, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,790 for the fiscal year 2024 indicates that Section 8 voucher payments are slightly above the market rate. This means that landlords accepting vouchers could potentially receive higher rents than those relying solely on market rates.
Jacksonville has a rental market where 22.0% of the 8,860 population are renters. Given these numbers, there are roughly 1,949 renters in the area. The affordability gap, where market rents are lower than the voucher payment standard, can lead to increased competition among landlords who accept vouchers. Landlords might find themselves in a position where they must offer better amenities or maintenance standards to attract voucher holders over other tenants paying market rates.
For landlords weighing the pros and cons of voucher versus cash-pay strategies, the takeaway is clear: accepting vouchers can provide a steady and slightly above-market income stream, but it comes with the challenge of navigating the administrative requirements and potential scrutiny associated with the program. Cash-paying tenants, on the other hand, offer flexibility and less regulatory oversight, though they may present risks related to timely rent collection and financial instability.
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.