Location: Kennewick-Richland, WA | Metro: Kennewick-Richland, 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 | $1,360 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,530 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,850 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,910 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,376 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,781 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,083 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,287 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,850 | $341,993 | 0.54% | F |
| 3BR | $2,550 | $448,697 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,910 | $556,293 | 0.52% | F |
| 5BR | $3,376 | $645,253 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 99353, located in West Richland, WA, has a population of 19,251, with 16.1% being renters. This indicates that the area is primarily dominated by homeowners rather than renters. The median household income in this region is notably high at $121,845, which contrasts sharply with the typical market rent of $1,919. To put this into perspective, the average rent consumes approximately 15.7% of the median household income.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 2024, as determined by HUD, is set at $2,050 for this ZIP code. This figure represents the maximum amount a landlord can charge for rent if they wish to participate in the Section 8 program. Given that the market rent is slightly below the FMR, it suggests that landlords who want to attract Section 8 tenants will have to compete with other housing options that offer similar pricing but potentially without the voucher requirement.
The demand for rental properties using Section 8 vouchers in this area is likely to be lower due to the higher median income levels. Landlords should expect tenants who are financially stable and capable of paying rent that is a smaller portion of their overall income. These tenants are likely to be seeking affordable housing options and may include families with children, elderly individuals, or those with disabilities who qualify for assistance under the Section 8 program.
In summary, while there is a presence of renters in ZIP 99353, the majority of residents are homeowners. The relatively low percentage of renters and the high median income suggest that the demand for Section 8 vouchers is limited. Landlords should prepare for a tenant pool that includes individuals and families who value affordability but also maintain financial stability, making them reliable tenants despite their need for housing assistance.
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.