Location: Lewis County, WA | Metro: Lewis County, WA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $990 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,080 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,140 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,482 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,002 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,152 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP code 98542 based on the provided data points reveals a unique balance between yield potential and market stability. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,290. This figure represents the yield potential for landlords operating in this region, assuming they can secure rental rates at or near the FMR. However, it's important to note that the market rental rate and median home value data are currently unavailable, which introduces an element of uncertainty regarding the actual rental prices and property values.
Moving on to stability, the ZIP code has a significant 23.9% of its population renting, indicating a substantial demand for rental properties. The average daily days on market (DOM) is not available, but the median household income is reported at $52,963. This income level suggests that while there is a rental market, the financial capacity of residents to pay higher rents or purchase homes might be limited compared to areas with higher median incomes.
Given these metrics, ZIP 98542 does not fit neatly into either a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market or a steady-cashflow zone. The lack of specific market rental rates and home values makes it challenging to assess the true yield potential. However, the significant rental population and the established FMR indicate a market with decent cash flow opportunities, albeit with some volatility due to the unknown market dynamics and the relatively moderate income levels.
To conclude, ZIP 98542 appears to be a mid-range market with moderate yield potential and a somewhat stable tenant base, given the rental percentage. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the FMR of $1,290 as a benchmark for setting rental prices and the median income of $52,963 as indicative of the financial situation of potential tenants. Further research into local rental trends and property values would provide a clearer picture of the investment landscape.
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.