Location: Barren County, KY | Metro: Barren County, KY
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $740 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 42130 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Tenant turnover is a significant risk due to the disparity between the market rent, which is currently unavailable, and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $890 for fiscal year 2026 in the metro area. This difference can lead to tenants seeking more affordable options, increasing the likelihood of frequent turnovers and the associated costs of re-leasing.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. The Days on Market (DOM) figure for the area is also not available, making it difficult to predict how quickly properties might be rented out. In an environment where rental turnover is high, extended periods of vacancy can become a reality, leading to financial strain on the landlord.
Deferred maintenance poses a substantial risk as well. With no data available on the typical home value or median income in ZIP 42130, it's challenging to gauge the ability of residents to cover maintenance costs through their rent payments. Landlords must be prepared for potential out-of-pocket expenses for repairs and upkeep, especially if the income levels are lower than expected.
Despite these risks, the area's 0.0% renter share suggests a high concentration of renters, which typically translates into higher demand for Section 8 vouchers. This high density of renters can stabilize the market by ensuring a steady pool of potential tenants who qualify for the program, thus mitigating some of the vacancy concerns.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.