Location: Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA | Metro: Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA MSA
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 | $1,620 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,670 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,990 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,468 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,195 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,405 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,670 | $495,497 | 0.34% | F |
| 2BR | $1,950 | $621,065 | 0.31% | F |
| 3BR | $2,570 | $844,705 | 0.3% | F |
| 4BR | $2,990 | $1,010,459 | 0.3% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 98826, located in Leavenworth, WA, has a population of 7,605 residents, with 28.2% being renters. This indicates that while there is a significant portion of renters, it is not overwhelmingly dominated by rental properties. The median household income in this area stands at $87,646, which provides a basis for analyzing the financial viability of renting to Section 8 tenants.
The typical market rent in this ZIP is $1,731, representing approximately 20% of the median household income. This figure is below the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $2,210 for FY 2024, suggesting that landlords could potentially receive higher rents through Section 8 vouchers compared to the average market rate. However, the actual demand for vouchers would depend on the number of eligible households and the availability of vouchers in the area.
To determine if this is an area with deep voucher demand, a closer look at the local housing authority and its waiting lists would be necessary. Nevertheless, given the FMR exceeds the market rent, it suggests there is room for voucher holders to afford the typical rent without significant strain on their finances.
A landlord in 98826 can expect tenants who are likely to have a stable source of income, as Section 8 vouchers are tied to federal subsidies. These tenants will typically spend around 30% of their adjusted income on rent, which aligns with the federal guidelines for affordable housing. With the median income at $87,646, a landlord might see tenants whose total incomes (including the voucher) allow them to comfortably pay the $1,731 market rent, making this a potentially viable option for those interested in participating in the Section 8 program.
However, it's important to note that the success of renting to Section 8 tenants also depends on factors such as the property's location, condition, and compliance with housing quality standards. Landlords should ensure they meet all requirements to avoid losing eligibility for the program.
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.