Location: Pocahontas County, IA | Metro: Palo Alto County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $710 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 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)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 50546 in metro FY 2026 is set at $920. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers in your area, which means that if you participate in the Section 8 program, the government will pay up to $920 per month for a unit that qualifies. It's important to note that this does not represent the actual rent you can charge tenants; it's the maximum amount the voucher will cover.
To put this into perspective, the average rent for ZIP 50546, according to Census ACS data, is $625. This suggests that the Section 8 payment standard is significantly higher than the local average, making it a potentially lucrative option for landlords. The difference between the FMR and the local average rent indicates that landlords could receive a higher monthly payment compared to market rates.
Moreover, 18.3% of residents in ZIP 50546 are renters, showing a steady demand for rental properties. Given the high payment standard relative to the average rent, there should be a sufficient number of tenants interested in Section 8 properties in your area. This demand can help ensure that your property remains occupied, reducing the risk of vacancy.
If you're looking to acquire a new property, the median household income in ZIP 50546 is approximately $133,285. While this figure is not directly related to the rent you can charge, it provides insight into the economic profile of the area. Higher incomes generally correlate with higher property values, so this could influence the price you might pay for a property.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental, verify that your property meets the necessary requirements for the program. This includes ensuring the property is safe, decent, and sanitary, as well as confirming that it complies with all local housing codes and regulations. This step is crucial because failing to meet these standards can result in penalties and loss of income.
In summary, the Section 8 program offers a guaranteed payment of up to $920 per month for a unit in ZIP 50546, which is notably higher than the local average rent of $625. With 18.3% of residents being renters, there is a solid tenant base. However, ensure your property meets the program's requirements to avoid any issues.
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.