Location: Calhoun County, IA | Metro: Calhoun County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,462 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,637 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,768 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median home value in ZIP code 50551, located in Calhoun County, Iowa, is $51,400. This figure is notably lower than the national average and even when compared to nearby ZIP codes, indicating a strong rent-to-price ratio in favor of rental investments.
The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the 50551 ZIP code is set at $940 for the fiscal year 2026, covering the broader Calhoun County metro area. However, market rent data for ZIP 50551 is currently unavailable, which suggests that voucher tenants will likely cashflow at the FMR rate without requiring premium units. Given the low median home value, it's reasonable to infer that the cost of living in this area is also relatively low, making it easier for voucher holders to cover their rent at the FMR level.
The lack of specific market rent figures makes it challenging to provide a precise rent-to-price ratio, but we can deduce that the low median home values support a favorable environment for rental properties. The data does not provide information on the median days on market (DOM) or the percentage of price cuts shared, but these factors would be less significant given the low property values and the strong likelihood of cashflow from voucher tenants.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP code 50551 is cashflow. With the HUD FMR at $940 and the median home value being exceptionally low, investors can expect stable cashflow from Section 8 voucher tenants without needing to offer premium units. This makes the area particularly attractive for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking reliable returns on investment.
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.