Location: Sac County, IA | Metro: Buena Vista County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
13.4% of residents in ZIP code 51053 are renters, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties in the area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 in the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,140, which is significantly higher than the $758 market rent observed according to Census ACS data. This suggests that Section 8 vouchers can provide a financial advantage to landlords, covering a larger portion of the potential rental income. Additionally, the median home value in the area is $144,598, which reflects a relatively affordable housing market, suitable for first-time buyers and investors looking for entry-level opportunities.
$72,534 is the median income for households in ZIP 51053, which is crucial for understanding the economic profile of potential tenants. While the exact days on market (DOM) and percentage of price-cut shares are not available, the gap between the FMR and the market rent implies that landlords could potentially attract tenants who might otherwise struggle to afford market rates. This discrepancy also highlights the role of Section 8 in supporting affordable housing initiatives in the community.
The verdict for Section 8 participation in ZIP code 51053 is positive, given the favorable FMR compared to the market rent, making it a viable option for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking stable rental income.
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.