Location: Bowling Green, KY | Metro: Bowling Green, 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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,170 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,598 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,143 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,300 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,370 | $214,742 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $1,640 | $307,814 | 0.53% | F |
| 4BR | $2,240 | $503,824 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $2,598 | $678,525 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1170 for zip code 42103 in Bowling Green, KY, for fiscal year 2024, landlords can align their rental prices with government standards to attract Section 8 tenants. The market rent, measured by Zillow's ZORI, stands at $1,360, indicating that properties priced slightly below this mark could be particularly attractive to both Section 8 participants and general renters. The median home value in the area is $363,654, reflecting a stable housing market where investments can yield solid returns. With 37.0% of the population being renters, there is a significant demand for rental properties, making it a viable market for small-portfolio investors. The median income of $87,689 suggests that residents have the financial stability to meet rental obligations, reducing the risk of default for landlords. A Days on Market (DOM) figure of 52 days shows that properties are typically sold relatively quickly, which is beneficial for those looking to turn over their investments. The price-cut share of just 0.2% indicates that sellers rarely need to lower their asking prices, implying strong pricing power for landlords and property owners. Based on these metrics, the Section 8 program presents a reliable opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors in Bowling Green, KY, given the alignment between FMR and market rents, coupled with a robust local economy and quick property turnover rates.
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.