Location: Pike County, KY | Metro: Pike 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $75,927 | 1.36% | A |
| 3BR | $1,230 | $112,903 | 1.09% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 41522 in Kentucky presents a unique balance between yield and stability for real estate investments, particularly for those interested in Section 8 properties. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $900, while the market rent stands slightly lower at $879. This suggests a modest premium for FMR-rented units over market-rate rentals. However, the median home value in this area is significantly higher at $88,058, indicating that property values are relatively stable and not prone to rapid fluctuations.
On the stability front, the rental market shows a substantial portion of tenants who are likely to be reliant on Section 8 assistance, with 21.4% of residents identified as renters. Unfortunately, the data does not provide the number of days on the market (DOM), which would be crucial for understanding the speed at which properties are typically leased. The average income in the area is $37,331, which is below the national average, suggesting that many residents might need rental assistance programs such as Section 8.
Given these figures, ZIP 41522 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. The relatively high FMR compared to the market rent provides a predictable income stream for landlords willing to participate in the Section 8 program. Moreover, the high median home value indicates a level of investment security, as it implies that property values are unlikely to drop precipitously, offering a degree of financial stability to long-term investors.
However, the reliance on Section 8 subsidies due to the lower average income could introduce some administrative complexities and potential delays in cash flow, as rental assistance payments can sometimes lag behind market rents. Despite these considerations, the combination of a decent yield and moderate stability makes this ZIP code a viable option for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking consistent returns without the volatility associated with flipping properties.
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.