Location: Palo Alto County, IA | Metro: Emmet County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,110 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,415 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,585 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,712 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
6.3% of the population in ZIP 50539 are renters, indicating a relatively small but stable rental market. The $920 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 suggests that landlords can expect to receive this amount as a guideline for rental properties under the Section 8 program. Meanwhile, the average market rent stands at $760, according to Census ACS data, which is significantly lower than the FMR. This discrepancy highlights the potential for higher returns on investment when participating in the Section 8 program. The median home value of $124,545 provides insight into the overall property values in the area, suggesting that homes are generally affordable and within reach of many low-income families. The median income of $65,417 further supports this notion, showing that residents have limited financial resources, making government assistance programs like Section 8 essential for securing housing. Unfortunately, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut share indicates a need for more detailed analysis to fully understand the dynamics of the local real estate market. However, based on the available figures, it's evident that the Section 8 program offers a reliable source of income for landlords willing to participate. With the FMR being notably higher than the market rent, there's a clear opportunity to secure tenants who might otherwise struggle to find suitable accommodation. In conclusion, for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to stabilize their cash flow, Section 8 remains a viable option in ZIP 50539.
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.