Location: Lawrence County, MS | Metro: Jefferson Davis 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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,392 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,559 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,684 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,768 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,190 | $109,018 | 1.09% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
10.8% of residents in ZIP code 39663 are renters, indicating a modest demand for rental properties. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $870, which represents the upper limit for Section 8 housing payments in the region. Comparatively, the average market rent based on Census ACS data stands at $791, suggesting that landlords participating in the Section 8 program could see slightly higher rents than the local market average. However, the median home value in the area is $112,971, which is relatively low, potentially impacting the overall property values and desirability. The median income of $46,484 provides insight into the financial capacity of potential tenants, though it's important to note that this figure is below the national average, possibly affecting the pool of eligible Section 8 applicants. Despite these figures, the data does not provide insights into the typical days on market (DOM) or the percentage of price cuts needed to secure a tenant, leaving some uncertainty about the speed and ease of renting properties in this area. Given the specific context of ZIP 39663, the Section 8 program offers a stable source of rental income, aligning closely with the local market rates while providing financial security through government-backed payments.
Participating in Section 8 can be advantageous for landlords and small-portfolio investors due to the guaranteed rent payments, although the potential for slightly higher rents compared to the market average should be considered alongside the lower median income levels. This balance suggests that while there might be fewer high-income tenants, the stability provided by the program can offset the risks associated with lower-income areas. The modest renter share indicates that competition among rental properties could be less intense, but also implies a smaller overall market size. Given the data, the decision to participate in Section 8 should be made with an understanding of the trade-offs between financial stability and potential rental income. For those seeking a predictable cash flow and willing to accept slightly lower rents, Section 8 can be a viable option in ZIP 39663.
Based on the analysis of the provided data, the verdict for Section 8 participation in ZIP 39663 is positive, offering a reliable income stream for those who can navigate the specific dynamics of the area.
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.