Location: Pike County, MS | Metro: Lincoln County, MS
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,485 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,663 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,796 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,886 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,220 | $214,329 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of Section 8 real estate in ZIP code 39629 reveals a significant gap between the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, while the current market rent, based on Census ACS data, is $830. This represents a difference of $140, or approximately 16.9%, where the FMR exceeds the market rent.
The gap suggests that landlords and small-portfolio investors can leverage Section 8 vouchers to achieve higher yields compared to renting to open-market tenants. With 20.7% of residents being renters and a median home value of $184,156, there is a clear demand for affordable housing options. The median income in the area is $68,724, indicating that many residents rely on assistance to meet their housing needs.
Taking advantage of the FMR, which is higher than the market rent, can result in a more profitable investment. However, it is important to note that accepting Section 8 tenants comes with certain responsibilities and requirements that must be met to ensure compliance and maintain the property's eligibility for the program. Despite these considerations, the potential for increased rental income makes ZIP 39629 an attractive option for those looking to maximize returns through government-assisted housing programs.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.