Location: Cass County, IA | Metro: Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA 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 | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $930 | $132,074 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $203,242 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $970 for ZIP code 50020 in Anita, IA, for fiscal year 2024, landlords can expect a significant margin above the average market rent of $591 as reported by the Census ACS. The median home value stands at $163,498, indicating a stable residential market where property values have remained consistent. In a community where 15.5% of the population are renters, there is a notable demand for affordable housing solutions, which aligns well with the availability of Section 8 vouchers. The median income of $75,417 suggests that while the area is not wealthy, it supports a steady rental market without the volatility often seen in areas with lower incomes.
The absence of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of listings that required price cuts implies a relatively healthy real estate market with few distressed properties. This stability benefits both landlords and small-portfolio investors, who can rely on predictable cash flows and minimal vacancy rates. Given the gap between the FMR and the market rent, landlords participating in the Section 8 program can achieve higher rents compared to the private market, ensuring better returns on investment.
In summary, the ZIP 50020 presents a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in the Section 8 program. The combination of a moderate median income, a reasonable median home value, and a higher FMR compared to the average market rent makes it an attractive location for those seeking stable and reliable rental income. The verdict on Section 8 participation in Anita, IA, is positive, offering a solid opportunity for investment with minimal risk.
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.