Location: Pulaski County, KY | Metro: Pulaski 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 | $650 |
| 1 Bedroom | $690 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,080 | $225,519 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 42519 represents a moderate opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to attract Section 8 tenants. With a population of 2,756, the area has a rental occupancy rate of 21.3%, indicating that it is not heavily dominated by renters but still offers a decent pool of potential tenants who might rely on housing vouchers.
The median household income stands at $41,964, which provides insight into the economic landscape of the region. The market rent of $848 suggests that typical rent consumes approximately 20% of the local median income. This figure aligns closely with the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $890 set for fiscal year 2026, reflecting a competitive pricing environment where rents are near the federally determined benchmark for the metro area.
In comparison to the FMR, the actual market rent is slightly lower, indicating that landlords in ZIP 42519 can expect to receive rents that are just below the average expected for the area. This slight discount could be attractive to voucher holders, making the ZIP code a viable option for those seeking affordable housing solutions.
A landlord in this ZIP code should anticipate a tenant profile characterized by individuals and families who are likely to be reliant on Section 8 vouchers due to the relatively high cost of rent relative to income. Tenants will generally have an annual income around the median of $41,964, necessitating the use of housing assistance to cover the $848 monthly rent. Given the proximity of market rent to the FMR, landlords may find themselves in a position where they must balance affordability with profitability, especially when considering the administrative aspects of managing Section 8 properties.
To conclude, while ZIP 42519 is not predominantly a renter-heavy area, it does present a niche market for landlords willing to engage with Section 8 tenants. The economic conditions suggest a need for affordable housing solutions, and the slightly below FMR market rent could make this ZIP code particularly appealing to voucher recipients. Landlords should prepare for a tenant base that requires financial assistance to meet housing costs, ensuring compliance with HUD regulations and readiness to manage the unique dynamics of subsidized housing.
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.