Location: Pocahontas County, IA | Metro: Buena Vista County, IA
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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $720 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,842 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,180 | $152,943 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 50510 in metro FY 2026 is set at $920. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers, which means the government will pay up to $920 per month for a rental unit in this area. However, it's important to note that this is not the amount you can charge as rent; it's the maximum reimbursement rate for voucher holders.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in ZIP 50510 is currently $777, based on recent Census American Community Survey (ACS) data. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the typical market rent, which can be advantageous for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
Renters make up 16.3% of the population in ZIP 50510, suggesting a steady demand for rental properties. This percentage translates to a significant number of potential tenants who could benefit from the Section 8 program, thereby ensuring a consistent stream of income for your property.
If you're looking to acquire a new property in this area, the median home value stands at $152,992. This figure reflects the typical price range for homes in ZIP 50510 and can help you gauge the cost of entering the market as a landlord.
Before proceeding with a Section 8 rental, verify that your property meets all the necessary safety and maintenance standards set by the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). This ensures compliance with the program requirements and prevents any delays in securing a tenant.
In summary, the FMR of $920 provides a clear benchmark for the reimbursement rates in the Section 8 program, while the local average rent of $777 highlights a potential opportunity for landlords. With a renter share of 16.3%, there is a reliable demand for rental units, and the median home value of $152,992 gives insight into the investment cost. Ensure your property meets HQS to facilitate a smooth process.
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.