| Scenario | Purchase price | Monthly cash flow | Cap rate | Cash-on-cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|
75% of median value-add or distressed | $137,050 | +$195/mo | 8.0% | +7.4% |
Median typical MLS deal | $182,733 | -$45/mo | 6.0% | -1.3% |
125% of median newer / premium | $228,416 | -$284/mo | 4.8% | -6.5% |
Historical data from Zillow ZHVI/ZORI
* Based on county median values. 35% expenses include taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacancy, and property management. Actual results vary by property.
Based on 9.23% rent-to-price ratio. Higher ratios indicate stronger cash flow potential.
Based on 4.5% YoY price growth. Moderate growth (3-8%) scores highest.
Population data not available.
Price-to-income ratio of 3.5x. Lower ratios indicate more affordable markets.
Scores are calculated using real Zillow home value and rent data, Census population data, and economic indicators. The weighted average produces the overall investment score. Markets with missing rent data use estimated values based on regional averages.
Houghton County in Michigan scores 77/100, ranking #20 of 1,000 US counties (top 3%). At 20% down and current rates, a median-priced rental roughly breaks even on cash flow (9.23% gross rent-to-price ratio). The deal works on appreciation or with better terms, not on month-one cash flow.
Use our investment calculators to run detailed numbers on specific properties.