Location: Okanogan County, WA | Metro: Okanogan 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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,123 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,378 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,568 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,696 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,290 | $224,121 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,790 | $308,144 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,830 | $371,215 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,060 for ZIP 98840 (Okanogan, WA) in metro FY 2026, landlords can expect a clear guideline for setting rental prices that align with government standards. This figure is notably higher than the reported market rent of $981 based on Census ACS data, indicating a potential upward trend in rental values. The median home value stands at $272,210, suggesting a stable housing market where property investments could yield solid returns. Given that 31.5% of residents are renters, there's a significant demand for rental properties, which is crucial for landlords looking to maximize occupancy rates.
The median income of $57,342 provides insight into the economic status of the area, with many households likely qualifying for assistance programs such as Section 8. While the days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares are not available, the discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent points towards an opportunity for landlords to adjust their pricing strategies. The current market conditions, with a slight gap between FMR and market rent, suggest that there is room for increasing rents without alienating potential tenants.
In conclusion, ZIP 98840 presents a viable market for Section 8 properties, given the high demand for rentals and the likelihood of income-eligible tenants. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this area as it offers a blend of stability and growth potential in the rental market. The verdict on Section 8 eligibility for this ZIP code is positive, with ample opportunities for investment.
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.