Location: Breckinridge County, KY | Metro: Breckinridge County, KY
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 | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $720 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,543 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,728 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,866 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,959 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $910 | $161,770 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $1,260 | $215,040 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $1,330 | $256,390 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 40143, encompassing Hardinsburg, KY, presents a market where rental dynamics are closely tied to the overall economic conditions. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $870 for the fiscal year 2026 indicates a benchmark that landlords should aim to meet or slightly exceed to remain competitive. Currently, the market rent stands at $738, as per the Census American Community Survey (ACS), suggesting a slight gap between actual rents and the FMR, which could be indicative of a market where supply slightly exceeds demand.
The 0.1% price-cut share is a telling statistic, reflecting a market where very few properties are being discounted to attract tenants. This low percentage implies that most landlords are able to maintain their asking rents without significant concessions, indicating a relatively stable rental market. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to draw conclusions on how quickly properties are being rented out, but the low price-cut share suggests a healthy pace.
The median home value of $178,719 is another critical point of reference. It signals an affordable market for both renters and buyers, potentially attracting first-time homeowners and investors alike. The 27.5% renter share highlights a segment of the population that prefers or needs to rent rather than buy, which can exert long-term housing pressure on the market. This percentage suggests a consistent demand for rental properties, ensuring a steady stream of potential tenants.
In summary, Hardinsburg's market is characterized by a slight oversupply of rental units relative to demand, reflected in the gap between the FMR and market rent. However, the low price-cut share and the presence of a substantial renter population indicate a resilient rental market that is likely to continue attracting tenants. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, these factors suggest a balanced environment with opportunities to maintain or slightly increase rental income without resorting to discounts. Additionally, the median home value points to an affordable market, which could further support the rental sector by attracting those who may choose to rent due to the cost of homeownership.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.