Location: Adair 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,705 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,166 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $161,680 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $1,390 | $238,691 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,470 | $272,981 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 50250, located in Stuart, IA within the Adair County metro, presents a unique profile when compared to other ZIP codes in the county. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $970 for fiscal year 2024, it exceeds the market rent of $678, indicating that subsidized renters may find it affordable despite the higher official rent estimates.
The median home value in ZIP 50250 stands at $221,116. This figure is indicative of a mid-tier neighborhood within the Adair County metro, suggesting that homeownership remains within reach for many residents but also that property values are not at the lower end of the spectrum.
A noteworthy aspect of ZIP 50250 is its 20.4% renter share, which is above the average for Adair County. This higher proportion of renters, combined with the below-FMR market rent, points to a potential value pocket for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent suggests that there could be opportunities to attract Section 8 tenants without setting rents excessively high relative to the local market.
To further contextualize these findings, let's examine the specific figures:
The combination of a relatively low market rent and a substantial renter share makes ZIP 50250 a particularly appealing area for those interested in Section 8 properties. It is likely a sweet spot where landlords can benefit from a stable tenant base while still maintaining competitive rental rates.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.