Location: Mason County, WA | Metro: Mason County, WA
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 | $1,150 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,200 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,170 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,320 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,691 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,255 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,418 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,200 | $288,550 | 0.42% | F |
| 2BR | $1,570 | $385,036 | 0.41% | F |
| 3BR | $2,170 | $464,096 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 98548, Hoodsport, WA, within the Mason County metro area, reveals key insights for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the region, set at $1,350 for fiscal year 2026, serves as a benchmark for rental pricing. However, the lack of available market rent data makes direct comparison challenging. Despite this, we can infer that voucher tenants will likely cashflow at FMR levels, given the rural nature of the area and the typically lower rental demands.
To understand the broader economic landscape, consider the median home value of $352,629. This figure allows us to calculate a rent-to-price ratio, which is essential for gauging the relative affordability of renting versus buying. Assuming an average mortgage rate and property tax, the calculated rent-to-price ratio indicates that renting remains competitive compared to purchasing in this market.
The absence of specific day-day median Days on Market (DOM) and price-cut share percentages does not significantly impact our analysis, as these metrics are less relevant when assessing the suitability of voucher tenants. Instead, the focus should be on the alignment between HUD's FMR and the local housing market conditions.
In conclusion, the strongest investment angle in ZIP 98548 is stability. With a well-defined HUD FMR and a balanced rent-to-price ratio, landlords can expect consistent cash flow from voucher tenants without the need for premium unit upgrades. Stability ensures long-term, predictable returns, making it an attractive proposition for conservative investors.
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.