Location: Hamilton County, IA | Metro: Hamilton County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,821 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,203 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP code 50231 hinges upon the interplay between yield potential and market stability. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $970 for the fiscal year 2026, it's clear that the rental market is supported by federal guidelines, ensuring a minimum rent threshold for Section 8 participants. However, the lack of specific market rent and home value data suggests that the private housing market may not be robust or well-documented, which could imply lower overall yields compared to purely market-driven areas.
On the stability front, only 6.6% of residents are renters, indicating a primarily owner-occupied community. This characteristic can mitigate the risk of high tenant turnover, a common concern in rental markets. Additionally, the average household income of $72,321 provides a strong economic foundation, reducing the likelihood of financial distress among residents and thereby enhancing the reliability of rental payments.
Given these factors, ZIP 50231 does not align with the high-yield/low-stability profile typical of 'flip-style' markets. Instead, it leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone. The FMR of $970 guarantees a stable rent stream for those participating in the Section 8 program, while the low percentage of renters and higher income levels contribute to a more predictable and less volatile market. This environment is favorable for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking consistent returns without the volatility associated with high-renter populations or fluctuating market rents.
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.