Location: Whitman County, WA | Metro: Whitman 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,160 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,940 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,722 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,858 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,610 | $289,366 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 99171 stands as a market in motion, with clear indicators pointing towards the dynamics at play between supply and demand. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,120 for the fiscal year 2026, exceeds the current market rent of $929 based on Census ACS data. This suggests that the rental market is currently under pressure, with demand potentially exceeding supply, as evidenced by the upward trend in FMR.
A median home value of $273,712 indicates a stable housing market, but without time-series data, it's difficult to determine the exact trajectory of home values. However, the fact that the FMR is higher than the current market rent points to an environment where landlords might be cautious about significant price cuts to attract tenants, as the data shows a non-existent percentage for price-cut share and days on market (DOM).
The 22.5% renter share in 99171 provides insight into the long-term housing pressures faced by the area. A lower renter share often correlates with a higher homeownership rate, which can reduce immediate demand for rental properties. However, this same dynamic can also create long-term housing pressure if those who wish to buy cannot afford the median home value, thus remaining in the rental market longer than they might prefer.
In summary, 99171 appears to be a market where demand is pushing rents upwards, though the overall homeownership rate remains high. Landlords should be prepared for a market that may see increasing competition for renters, particularly as the FMR continues to rise above current market rates. The stability in home values suggests a balanced market, but the rental segment indicates a potential for growth and increased tenant interest as prices align more closely with the FMR.
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.