Location: Harlan County, KY | Metro: Harlan County, KY
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 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 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 40819 presents a significant opportunity for landlords interested in attracting Section 8 tenants. With 20.2% of the population being renters, it indicates a notable portion of the residents rely on rental housing, suggesting a robust demand for rental properties.
To understand the depth of voucher demand, consider the median household income of $31,799. This figure is crucial when evaluating the affordability of market rents versus the Federal Market Rent (FMR) of $870, which is the maximum amount that a Section 8 voucher can cover in this area for fiscal year 2026.
In ZIP 40819, typical market rents are not directly provided; however, comparing the median income to the FMR gives us insight into the financial burden of renting. If we assume a standard rent-to-income ratio, the FMR represents approximately 33.7% of the median income, calculated by dividing $870 by $31,799 and multiplying by 100. This percentage suggests that the typical rent consumes a considerable share of the average resident's income, highlighting the importance of rental assistance programs such as Section 8.
Landlords in ZIP 40819 should anticipate a tenant pool heavily reliant on government subsidies to afford housing. The expected tenants will be individuals or families who qualify for Section 8 due to their lower income levels. They will likely include working-class adults, seniors living on fixed incomes, and families with children who need affordable housing solutions.
Given the economic context, landlords must ensure their properties meet the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) required by the Section 8 program to remain eligible for voucher holders. Additionally, they should familiarize themselves with the administrative processes involved in accepting Section 8 tenants, including regular inspections and rent certification procedures.
In conclusion, ZIP 40819 is characterized by a substantial number of renters, many of whom would benefit from the support of Section 8 vouchers. Landlords operating in this area should prepare to cater to a tenant base that requires affordable housing options, aligning their offerings with the local economic realities and federal assistance guidelines.
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.