Location: Buena Vista County, IA | Metro: Buena Vista County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,819 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,965 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP code 50576 is characterized by a balanced but dynamic interaction between supply and demand, as evidenced by the snapshot data. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,030 for the fiscal year 2026 is slightly above the current market rent of $1,016, based on Census ACS data. This suggests that while rents are stable, there is a slight upward pressure indicating that demand may be keeping pace with supply, if not slightly exceeding it.
The median home value of $155,581 provides insight into the overall affordability of the housing market in this area. Given the relatively low median home value, it's likely that homeownership is accessible to many residents, which could contribute to a lower rental market participation rate. However, with a 19.1% renter share, we see a significant portion of the population choosing to rent rather than buy. This figure implies ongoing long-term housing pressure, as a substantial number of individuals prefer or need to remain in the rental market. Such a scenario can create a steady demand for rental properties, benefiting landlords and small-portfolio investors who focus on this segment.
The lack of specific data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) prevents a detailed analysis of the current supply-demand dynamics. However, the slight difference between the FMR and the actual market rent suggests that the rental market is not experiencing extreme oversupply conditions that would typically lead to significant price reductions or extended listing periods. Instead, the market appears to be in a state of equilibrium, with rents reflecting the balance between available units and tenant demand.
In summary, ZIP 50576 presents a market where demand is likely to match or slightly exceed supply, driven by a moderate rental market and a considerable renter share. For investors, this means a stable rental income potential, although specific investment decisions should consider additional factors such as local economic trends and employment rates.
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.