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 | $1,030 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,190 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,819 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,410 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,581 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,470 | $399,569 | 0.37% | F |
| 3BR | $2,040 | $506,297 | 0.4% | F |
| 4BR | $2,430 | $612,719 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 97537, located in Rogue River, Oregon, within Jackson County and the Medford, OR MSA, reveals several key points. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 97537 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,280, while the market rent based on Census ACS data stands at $1,334. This indicates that voucher tenants will cashflow marginally at the HUD FMR rate, with landlords needing to ensure efficient management to maintain profitability.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in the area, which is $474,620. Using the HUD FMR of $1,280, the annual rent would be $15,360, leading to a rent-to-price ratio of approximately 3.2%. This ratio suggests that the rental market is slightly below the typical benchmark for affordability, indicating that the area may favor homeownership over renting. However, given the slight difference between the HUD FMR and market rent, it also implies that there is a reasonable demand for rental properties among voucher holders.
The N/A-day median Days on Market (DOM) and the 0.2% price-cut share indicate a stable housing market with little need for significant price adjustments. This stability is beneficial for both landlords and small-portfolio investors, as it reduces the risk of property value fluctuations and ensures steady cash flow.
In conclusion, the strongest investor angle in ZIP 97537 is stability. With minimal price-cutting and consistent demand for rental properties, investors can expect reliable returns and low-risk investments. While cashflow may be marginal, the overall stability of the market provides a solid foundation for long-term investment strategies.
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.