Location: Baker County, OR | Metro: Baker County, OR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,100 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,070 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,401 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,689 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,904 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,049 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 97834, located in Baker County, OR, presents a unique opportunity for Section 8 investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,350 per month for the fiscal year 2026. In contrast, the Census ACS reports an average market rent of $806 for the same period. This significant gap between the FMR and the actual market rent means that voucher tenants can cashflow comfortably at the FMR rate, providing a stable and predictable income stream for landlords.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in ZIP 97834, which stands at $333,366. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio. With an average market rent of $806, the annual rent would be approximately $9,672. Dividing this by the median home value yields a rent-to-price ratio of about 2.9%. This low ratio suggests that the area leans towards being a buyer's market, where owning a property is more financially advantageous than renting. However, for investors focused on rental income, the disparity between the FMR and market rent offers a substantial margin for profitability.
The dynamics of the local real estate market also support this investment strategy. The median Days on Market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that require price cuts are not applicable (N/A) in this context, indicating a relatively stable market without significant fluctuations. This stability ensures that investors can rely on consistent rental income without the risk of having to lower their asking rents due to market conditions.
In conclusion, the strongest investor angle in ZIP 97834 is cashflow. The high FMR compared to the actual market rent provides a solid financial cushion for landlords, ensuring they can cover expenses and generate profit without the need for premium units. This makes the area particularly attractive for small-portfolio investors looking for reliable returns on their investments.
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.