Location: Pacific County, WA | Metro: Pacific County, WA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,564 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,872 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,102 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,257 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 98641, located in Oysterville, Washington, can serve as a diversifier within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Despite the lack of specific data on the median home value and market price, the median income in the area is $86,853, indicating a relatively affluent community. This suggests that the majority of residents are likely to be outside the income bracket eligible for Section 8 assistance.
The median income figure points to a low renter share, estimated at 0.0%. Given these conditions, it's unlikely that this ZIP code will generate significant cash flow through Section 8 vouchers due to the limited number of renters who qualify. The area's median income is well above the federal poverty level, making it less attractive for those seeking subsidized housing.
However, ZIP 98641 can still contribute to a balanced portfolio by offering stability and potentially lower risk. With a median income significantly higher than the federal poverty line, the area is less prone to economic downturns that could affect rent collection. Additionally, the scarcity of available rental units means that landlords can maintain competitive rents without fear of losing tenants to cheaper alternatives.
To illustrate, consider the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the Pacific County, WA metro area, which is set at $1,120 for fiscal year 2026. While this figure is useful for determining voucher amounts, the actual market conditions in ZIP 98641 suggest that rents could be higher, given the median income levels. This disparity indicates that landlords might be able to charge rents above the FMR, thus providing a buffer against potential shortfalls from voucher payments.
In conclusion, ZIP 98641 is best suited as a diversifier in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. It offers a stable and affluent environment that can balance out the risks associated with more volatile areas where Section 8 plays a larger role in tenant acquisition and rent collection.
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.