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 | $1,260 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,330 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,958 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,578 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,757 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,330 | $323,716 | 0.41% | F |
| 2BR | $1,740 | $494,609 | 0.35% | F |
| 3BR | $2,390 | $584,783 | 0.41% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 98588, Tahuya, WA, reveals several key insights for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the Mason County metro area, effective for fiscal year 2026, stands at $1,490. This figure represents the maximum amount that a voucher tenant can pay for rent, which is crucial for understanding the cash flow potential of properties in this area.
However, the market rent data for ZIP 98588 is currently unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare the HUD FMR against prevailing market rates. Without this comparison, we cannot definitively state whether voucher tenants will cashflow at the FMR, marginally, or only with premium units. Nonetheless, the median home value in the area is $429,406, which provides a basis for calculating the rent-to-price ratio. Assuming a typical rental property is valued similarly to the median home value, the rent-to-price ratio would be approximately 0.35%, indicating that rental income alone may not cover all expenses for most standard units without some form of subsidy.
The lack of specific data on the number of days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price cuts suggests that there isn't significant fluctuation or difficulty in selling homes in the area. This implies that the buy-versus-rent decision leans more towards stability rather than rapid appreciation or depreciation. In terms of investor angles, the strongest consideration for Section 8 investors in ZIP 98588 would be cashflow, given the reliance on the FMR to ensure consistent income streams.
In summary, while the HUD FMR of $1,490 is a fixed benchmark for voucher tenants, the absence of market rent data complicates a direct assessment of cashflow potential. Investors should focus on the cashflow angle, leveraging the FMR to secure stable, predictable income from rental properties in this area.
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.