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 | $700 |
| 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 | $152,161 | 0.6% | F |
| 3BR | $1,260 | $208,632 | 0.6% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 40144, encompassing Hardinsburg, KY, and the broader Breckinridge County area, reveals key insights for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro scope in fiscal year 2026 is set at $940. However, the current market rent data is unavailable, which complicates a direct comparison. Despite this gap, we can infer that voucher tenants in this area will likely cashflow at FMR levels due to the relatively low cost of living and housing prices.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in ZIP 40144, which stands at $184,376. This figure allows us to calculate a rough estimate of the rent-to-price ratio. Assuming an average rental yield of 1%, the expected annual rent would be approximately $1,844, translating to a monthly rent of around $154. Given the HUD FMR of $940, it's evident that the rent-to-price ratio is favorable for landlords, especially those who can secure properties below the median value. This suggests that even with the HUD rent subsidy, landlords can achieve positive cash flow, particularly with well-managed, premium units.
In ZIP 40144, the lack of specific data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price cuts indicates stable market conditions where rapid turnover or significant price adjustments are uncommon. This stability supports the notion that the primary investor angle in this market should focus on cashflow rather than speculative appreciation. Landlords can rely on steady income from voucher tenants, making this area attractive for those seeking reliable returns on their investment.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 40144 is cashflow, given the favorable rent-to-price ratio and the likelihood of positive cash flow even at the HUD FMR levels.
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.