Location: Bethel Census Area, AK | Metro: Bethel Census Area, AK
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,520 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,550 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,310 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,680 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,002 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,242 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,404 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 99609, located in a rural area, stands out due to its unique characteristics. With only 698 residents, it has a rental rate of 15.9%, indicating a primarily owner-occupied community. The median income here is $60,833, which suggests that while the population is modest, they have a relatively stable financial situation. However, the lack of data on median home value points to limited housing stock or a very niche market.
Moving into the voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,710. This figure is significantly higher than the current market rent of $719, based on Census American Community Survey data. This disparity indicates a potential opportunity for landlords who can leverage Section 8 vouchers to secure tenants willing to pay closer to the FMR rather than the local market rate.
The data signature for ZIP 99609 reads as "stable." Despite the small population, the income levels suggest a community that is financially secure enough to support steady housing demand. The high FMR compared to the market rent could be indicative of an underdeveloped rental sector, offering a chance for new entrants or existing landlords to increase their rents towards the FMR without losing tenants to the voucher program. For small-portfolio investors looking to enter this market, understanding the dynamics between the FMR and the actual rental rates will be crucial in assessing potential returns and risks.
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.