Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 99179 - 2027

Location: Whitman County, WA | Metro: Whitman County, WA

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size Monthly FMR
Studio$1,320
1 Bedroom$1,500
2 Bedrooms$1,900
3 Bedrooms$2,630
4 Bedrooms$3,180
5 Bedrooms$3,689
6 Bedrooms$4,132
7 Bedrooms$4,463
8 Bedrooms$4,686

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population
645
Median Household Income
$79,063
Housing Units
250
Renter Percentage
32.0%
Occupancy Rate
88.8%
Renter Occupied
71

32.0% of residents in ZIP code 99179 are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,750, which represents the upper limit for Section 8 payments in this region. However, the actual market rent, based on Census ACS data, is slightly lower at $1,675, suggesting that landlords participating in the program could potentially receive above-average rents.

$368,033 is the median home value in ZIP 99179, reflecting the overall property values in the area. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this figure provides context regarding the investment potential and property appreciation in the area. The median income of $79,063 offers insight into the financial capacity of local residents, although it's important to note that Section 8 participants typically have incomes below 50% of the area median income.

N/A-day DOM (Days on Market) and N/A% price-cut share indicate incomplete data regarding the speed of property sales and the frequency of price reductions. Despite these gaps, the existing figures paint a picture of a stable rental market with a slight edge for Section 8 landlords due to the higher FMR compared to market rent.

In conclusion, ZIP code 99179 presents a favorable environment for landlords considering participation in the Section 8 program, given the higher FMR relative to market rents and a substantial renter population. The verdict on Section 8 for this area is positive, offering both stability and potential for above-market rental income.

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.