Location: Union County, OR | Metro: Baker 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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,850 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,146 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,404 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,596 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,726 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $900 | $194,926 | 0.46% | F |
| 2BR | $1,100 | $227,835 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $1,530 | $347,355 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $1,850 | $404,000 | 0.46% | F |
| 5BR | $2,146 | $423,717 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for a Section 8 investment in ZIP code 97814, located in Baker City, OR, include higher tenant turnover due to the disparity between the market rent of $880 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,030 for FY 2026. This difference can make it challenging to find tenants willing to pay the lower Section 8 rate, leading to increased turnover and associated costs.
Vacancy exposure is another concern, as the Days on Market (DOM) is listed as N/A, indicating that there is insufficient data to determine how quickly properties are typically rented in this area. This uncertainty can pose a risk, especially if vacancies occur frequently, as landlords would need to be prepared for extended periods without rental income.
The deferred-maintenance exposure is also significant, considering the typical home value of $300,372 and the median income of $64,852. These figures suggest that many homeowners may struggle to keep up with necessary repairs and maintenance, which can affect property values and the overall condition of homes in the area.
However, these risks must be weighed against the high renter share of 28.1%. High renter density often correlates with a greater demand for rental housing, including those using Section 8 vouchers. This demand can provide a stable source of tenants and reduce the likelihood of prolonged vacancies.
In conclusion, the risks associated with a first-time Section 8 landlord investment in ZIP 97814 are moderate. While challenges such as tenant turnover and vacancy exposure exist, the high renter share offers a mitigating factor that supports a stable tenant pool.
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.