Location: Bolivar County, MS | Metro: Bolivar County, MS
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $690 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,546 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 38764, located in Bolivar County, Mississippi, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The primary reason for this classification is the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 and the current market rent. Specifically, the FMR for the metro area is set at $850, whereas the market rent in ZIP 38764 is only $436. This means that landlords can secure a higher rental income through Section 8 vouchers compared to what they might receive from market-rate tenants.
The cash flow generated from this ZIP code can help stabilize a landlord's overall investment portfolio. Given that the median home value is not available, focusing on rental properties is a prudent strategy for maximizing returns. With the guaranteed payment structure of Section 8, landlords can rely on steady income, which is particularly beneficial when dealing with areas where property values are either unknown or potentially volatile.
Furthermore, the median income in ZIP 38764 is $26,042, indicating a lower-income population that heavily relies on government assistance programs such as Section 8. This demographic characteristic aligns well with the program's goal of providing affordable housing options to those who need them most. Landlords in this ZIP code can benefit from the consistent demand for subsidized housing units.
While the ZIP code does not offer significant potential for appreciation, given the lack of data on price-cut shares and days on market (DOM), it still holds value as part of a diversified portfolio. The 45.4% renter share suggests a substantial portion of the population is already accustomed to renting, making it easier to find tenants and maintain occupancy rates. However, the focus should remain on the cash-flow benefits rather than appreciation potential.
In summary, ZIP code 38764 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio due to the favorable difference between the FMR and market rent, ensuring landlords receive a reliable and higher-than-market rental income. This ZIP code provides a stable income stream, crucial for maintaining financial health amidst economic uncertainties.
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.