Location: Bethel Census Area, AK | Metro: Bethel Census Area, AK
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,004 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,633 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,815 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 99634, located in the Bethel Census Area, AK, reveals several key points that can influence investment decisions. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,940 for FY 2026, which represents the maximum amount that a voucher tenant can pay for housing within the metro scope. However, the current market rent data is not available, making it difficult to directly compare the FMR to the actual rental rates.
In the absence of specific market rent figures, we must consider the HUD FMR as a guideline for what voucher tenants can afford. Given that the FMR is $1,940, landlords and small-portfolio investors should expect that voucher tenants will generally cashflow at this rate, provided they manage their properties efficiently. This means keeping operating costs low and ensuring high occupancy rates. It's important to note that without precise market rent data, the cashflow potential can only be assessed marginally, and it might require premium units to ensure positive cashflow.
The median home value in the area is also not available, which complicates the derivation of a rent-to-price ratio. Typically, this ratio would give insight into the relative affordability of renting versus buying. In ZIP 99634, the lack of data on median home values and days on market (DOM), along with the percentage of price cuts, suggests that the buy-versus-rent dynamic is less clear. This could indicate a unique market situation where traditional metrics do not fully apply, or it could simply mean that there isn't enough data to make a comprehensive assessment.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 99634 appears to be stability. With a HUD FMR that provides a reliable income stream for voucher tenants, landlords can count on steady rental payments, assuming they maintain their properties well and adhere to Section 8 guidelines. Stability is crucial in an area where other economic indicators might be less predictable due to limited data.
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.