Location: Whitman County, WA | Metro: Lewiston, ID-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 | $970 |
| 1 Bedroom | $970 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,424 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,715 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,932 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,079 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,270 | $273,651 | 0.46% | F |
| 3BR | $1,760 | $369,446 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1190 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 99403, Clarkston, WA, as set by HUD for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for a Section 8 voucher. In contrast, the market rent for the area, according to the Census ACS, is 1036, indicating a potential gap between what landlords can charge under Section 8 and the actual market rates. The median home value in the region stands at 339637, suggesting a relatively stable housing market. However, with a renter share of 27.8%, it's clear that a significant portion of the population relies on rental properties. The median income of 71482 provides insight into the economic conditions of the area, which can affect the demand for affordable housing options. Landlords should note that the average Days on Market (DOM) for listings is 55, implying a moderate speed in property turnover. Furthermore, the price-cut share is only 0.2%, which indicates that most properties sell at their original asking price, reflecting a strong seller's market. Given these figures, it is evident that the Section 8 program can offer a steady stream of tenants for landlords willing to participate, especially considering the discrepancy between the FMR and market rent. With a solid economic foundation and a notable renter base, ZIP 99403 presents a viable opportunity for those interested in Section 8 rentals.
Verdict: For landlords and small-portfolio investors in ZIP 99403, participating in the Section 8 program can provide a reliable source of tenants at a rate slightly below market, ensuring consistent occupancy and cash flow.
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.