Location: Bolivar County, MS | Metro: Bolivar County, MS
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,705 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,166 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 38730, located in Bolivar County, MS, can serve as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The key determinant for this classification lies in the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 and the current market rental rates. Specifically, the FMR stands at $930, while the market rate is $1,114. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can secure a stable source of income that is guaranteed by the government, despite the higher market rates.
The guaranteed income from the Section 8 program, combined with the lower FMR compared to the market rate, ensures a steady and predictable cash flow. This is particularly valuable in an area where the median home value is not available, indicating potential volatility or lack of data in the housing market. Landlords can rely on the consistent rental payments from the government, which are adjusted annually but generally provide a reliable income stream.
Furthermore, the renter share in ZIP 38730 is 17.8%, suggesting a moderate demand for rental properties. While this percentage is not exceptionally high, it does indicate a viable market for rentals, especially those covered under the Section 8 program. With a median income of $73,938, there is sufficient economic activity to support the rental market, although the exact impact of this income level on the demand for Section 8 housing is unclear without further data.
In summary, ZIP 38730 should be considered a cash-flow anchor due to the guaranteed nature of Section 8 payments and the favorable spread between FMR and market rates. This positioning allows landlords to stabilize their income streams and manage risks effectively, making it a strategic choice for those looking to secure consistent cash flows within their real estate portfolios.
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.