Location: Pacific County, WA | Metro: Pacific County, WA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,424 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,715 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,932 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,079 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 98590 in Pacific County, Washington, reveals key insights into its viability for Section 8 real-estate investments. To determine if the rent math works, we must compare the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,170 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 against the current market rent of $878, as reported by the Census ACS. This indicates that landlords can expect a higher rental income from Section 8 tenants compared to the average market rate, making it financially viable.
Regarding the affordability of property acquisition, the median home value stands at $280,465. However, the lack of data on the number of days on the market (DOM) and the percentage of homes needing price cuts suggests that the local real estate market might be stable but lacks recent transactional detail. Landlords should proceed with caution when evaluating purchase costs, considering the median home value as a baseline for investment decisions.
Tenant demand is another critical factor. With a total population of 509 and a 22.6% renter share, the ZIP code has a limited but steady demand for rental properties. This relatively high proportion of renters signals a potential market for Section 8 housing, given the appropriate supply.
Overall, ZIP 98590 presents a favorable environment for Section 8 investments due to the positive rent math. Despite the median home value being relatively high, the strong preference for renting among the local population ensures a consistent tenant base. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should focus on securing properties below the median value to maximize profitability and ensure they can meet the needs of Section 8 tenants.
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.