Location: Kossuth County, IA | Metro: Emmet 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 | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $930 | $111,665 | 0.83% | C |
| 3BR | $1,230 | $169,493 | 0.73% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 50514, located in Armstrong, IA, within Kossuth County, presents an interesting comparison when analyzed against typical ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $920. However, the actual market rent in ZIP 50514 is significantly lower at $612. This indicates that 50514 could be considered a value pocket within the Kossuth County metro, as it offers rental properties at a price point below the average expected in the region.
Additionally, the median home value in ZIP 50514 stands at $167,944, which is notably below the metro average. This further supports the notion that this area is a value pocket, offering both lower rents and more affordable home purchases compared to surrounding areas. The lower home values can also suggest that there might be less investment potential in terms of property appreciation, but it makes it more accessible for first-time buyers and renters looking for cost-effective options.
A key factor for Section 8 real-estate analysts and investors is the renter share, which in ZIP 50514 is 19.0%. While this percentage is not extraordinarily high, it still suggests a decent demand for rental properties. When combined with the below-average home values and market rents, it points towards a scenario where 50514 might be particularly attractive for landlords participating in the Section 8 program, as the lower costs could make up for the typically fixed rental rates offered through such programs.
In summary, ZIP 50514 appears to be a value pocket within the Kossuth County, IA metro, characterized by lower-than-average market rents and home values, along with a moderate renter share. This combination provides a clear indication of an area where rental properties could be more profitable for landlords and potentially beneficial for small-portfolio investors seeking stable returns rather than rapid appreciation.
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.