Location: Carlisle County, KY | Metro: Carlisle County, KY HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $630 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,485 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,663 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,796 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,886 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $910 | $101,383 | 0.9% | C |
| 3BR | $1,240 | $165,248 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $1,280 | $233,105 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 42023, Bardwell, KY, stands at $63,229. This figure places significant constraints on the ability of households to afford market-rate rents. At a market rate of $699 per month, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), the financial burden on renters becomes evident. To put this into perspective, a household earning the median income would spend approximately 14.1% of their monthly income on rent alone, assuming a consistent income throughout the year.
However, the situation becomes even more challenging when comparing the market rate to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the Housing Choice Voucher Program, which is $870 per month for the fiscal year 2026. This amount represents a higher rent threshold that is still considered affordable under government guidelines. For a household earning the median income, paying $870 per month would require dedicating roughly 17.8% of their monthly earnings towards rent.
Bardwell has a total population of 2,529, with 24.2% of residents being renters. Given these demographics, the affordability gap between the market rate and the FMR suggests a competitive landscape for landlords. Many potential tenants might struggle to pay the market rate of $699, let alone the higher FMR. As such, landlords who wish to attract and retain tenants must consider the financial realities faced by local households.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: focusing on voucher acceptance can be a strategic advantage. While accepting vouchers means receiving a fixed payment of $870 per month, it opens up the rental pool to those who qualify for assistance, potentially stabilizing occupancy rates. In contrast, relying solely on cash-paying tenants risks vacancies if the market rate remains unaffordable for many local households. Balancing between voucher and cash-pay strategies will depend on individual preferences and the broader economic conditions in Bardwell, but understanding the financial pressures on renters is crucial for making informed decisions.
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.