Location: Wright County, IA | Metro: Hamilton 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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,612 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,805 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,046 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,020 | $96,430 | 1.06% | B |
| 3BR | $1,220 | $161,401 | 0.76% | D |
| 4BR | $1,390 | $215,137 | 0.65% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 50595, located in Webster City, Iowa, stands out in Hamilton County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a total population of 8,885 residents, 32.7% of whom rent their homes, the area has a median income of $69,167. The median home value in ZIP 50595 is $146,093, reflecting a mix of affordability and comfort that attracts both homeowners and renters.
The economic landscape of ZIP 50595 is further defined by the dynamics of Section 8 housing vouchers. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,000, while the actual market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $899. This indicates that the FMR is slightly above the market rate, providing a buffer for landlords who accept vouchers. However, it also suggests that the rental market in Webster City might be more competitive compared to other areas, where the FMR could be significantly higher than the market rent.
The data signature for ZIP 50595 reads as stable. The relatively low percentage of renters and a median income that supports both renting and homeownership suggest a balanced community. The close alignment between the FMR and market rent rates implies a stable rental market, which can provide consistent cash flow for landlords and small-portfolio investors. While the rental market may face some competition, the overall stability of the area's economy and demographics make it an attractive investment for those considering properties that accept Section 8 vouchers.
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.