Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Fair Market Rent data and how to use RentByZip
How accurate is this data?
Our rent data is 100% sourced from the official HUD FY 2026 Small Area Fair Market Rent (SAFMR) dataset—we display the exact values published by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Utility estimates are based on state-level residential electricity rates from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). While the FMR data is the federal standard for housing assistance programs, actual market rents can vary above or below these values depending on property type, condition, location, and local demand.
Why is the rent limit lower than prices I see on Zillow or Apartments.com?
Fair Market Rent (FMR) represents the 40th percentile of gross rents in a given area—meaning 40% of rental units cost less than the FMR, and 60% cost more. HUD intentionally sets FMR below the median to ensure housing voucher funds are used efficiently while still providing access to a reasonable range of rental options. Listing sites like Zillow typically show asking prices for currently available units, which tend to skew higher because lower-cost units rent quickly and may not be advertised as broadly. FMR is not a market average—it's a benchmark for affordability and housing assistance eligibility.
Does the Fair Market Rent include utilities?
Yes. HUD defines Fair Market Rent as the "gross rent," which includes the cost of rent plus essential utilities (electricity, gas, water/sewer, trash collection). However, the FMR assumes tenant-paid utilities. When you see separate utility estimates on RentByZip, those are provided to help you budget—not added on top of the FMR. If a landlord includes utilities in the rent, the total rent may be higher than the FMR to account for those costs. For Section 8 vouchers, local housing authorities adjust payment standards based on whether utilities are included or tenant-paid.
How often is this data updated?
HUD publishes updated Fair Market Rent data annually, typically in late September or early October for the following fiscal year (which begins October 1st). This site currently displays FY 2026 data, which covers October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. We will update RentByZip with the latest official data as soon as HUD releases it. Utility rate data from the EIA is updated periodically based on state-level averages.
Can I use this data for my Section 8 voucher application?
Yes—this is the same FMR data that local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) use to administer the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8). However, each PHA may apply different payment standards (typically between 90%-110% of FMR) and have specific local rules. Always check with your local housing authority for the exact payment standard, voucher size you qualify for, and any additional local requirements. RentByZip is a reference tool to help you understand baseline FMR values, but it does not replace official guidance from your PHA.
What if my ZIP code doesn't show data?
HUD publishes Small Area FMRs for specific metro areas and uses traditional metro-wide FMRs for other regions. If your ZIP code is not in the SAFMR dataset, it may fall under a broader metro area FMR or a county-level estimate. We display data only for ZIP codes explicitly included in the FY 2026 HUD SAFMR file. If you don't find your ZIP code, you can check HUD's official FMR documentation or contact your local Public Housing Authority for applicable rent limits in your area.
Still have questions?
For more detailed information about our data sources and methodology, visit our About page. For questions about Section 8 vouchers or housing assistance programs, contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA).