Location: Wheeler County, OR | Metro: Wheeler County, OR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 97750, located in Wheeler County, Oregon, can serve as a valuable component within a Section 8 portfolio strategy, primarily functioning as a cash-flow anchor. This designation is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026, which is $1,010, and the market rent of $1,125. Given the median home value of $413,696, this spread indicates a stable and predictable cash flow for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The FMR is set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure that Section 8 vouchers cover the cost of housing in a given area. In ZIP 97750, the gap between the FMR and the market rent suggests that properties can be rented at or near the FMR rate while still generating a positive cash flow. This makes ZIP 97750 an attractive option for investors looking to secure consistent income streams from their properties.
Additionally, the ZIP code has a 44.3% renter share, indicating a substantial portion of the population relies on rental housing. With a median income of $54,837, many residents may benefit from Section 8 vouchers, further stabilizing the rental market and ensuring steady occupancy rates.
While ZIP 97750 does not present significant opportunities for appreciation plays due to the lack of recent price cuts and long days on market (DOM), it remains a solid choice for diversification. The relatively balanced market and strong tenant base contribute to its role as a dependable cash-flow anchor within a broader investment portfolio.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.