Location: Jennings County, IN | Metro: Columbus, IN MSA
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 | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $880 | $126,071 | 0.7% | D |
| 2BR | $1,150 | $160,971 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $1,460 | $241,797 | 0.6% | D |
| 4BR | $1,560 | $317,833 | 0.49% | F |
| 5BR | $1,810 | $411,410 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Seymour, IN, with a ZIP code of 47274, is a modest-sized community with a total population of 33,068. The area has a significant rental market, with 33.1% of residents being renters. The median household income in this neighborhood stands at $71,457, which indicates a middle-class demographic. The median home value in ZIP 47274 is $232,249, suggesting that homeownership is accessible to many in the community but also that there is a reasonable level of investment in property.
Moving into the specifics of the rental market, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 47274 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,080. This is notably lower than the market rent, which is estimated at $1,195 according to ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index). The difference between the FMR and the market rent highlights an opportunity for landlords who can manage properties efficiently to cater to both voucher recipients and private tenants, potentially maximizing occupancy rates and revenue.
The economic landscape of ZIP 47274 makes it suitable for different types of investors. For those interested in a hands-off approach, the presence of a substantial rental market and the availability of Section 8 vouchers can provide a steady stream of income, albeit at the FMR rate. On the other hand, for hands-on investors looking to add value, the gap between the FMR and market rent suggests potential for increasing property values and rents through improvements and effective management strategies. Such investors might focus on areas where they can leverage their expertise to attract higher-paying tenants while still maintaining a portion of units for voucher holders.
In conclusion, ZIP 47274 offers a balanced environment for both passive and active real estate investors. With a median income of $71,457 and median home value at $232,249, the neighborhood supports a diverse mix of residents. The FMR of $1,080 contrasts with the market rent of $1,195, creating opportunities for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers to find success in this area.
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.