Location: Page County, IA | Metro: Fremont 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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,508 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,689 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,824 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,915 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $960 | $89,192 | 1.08% | B |
| 3BR | $1,230 | $164,899 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $1,300 | $200,398 | 0.65% | D |
| 5BR | $1,508 | $234,021 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP 51601, Shenandoah, IA, does not work favorably for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $930, whereas the actual market rent based on Census ACS data is only $780. This discrepancy means that landlords might struggle to cover their costs if they adhere strictly to the FMR guidelines.
Acquisition in this area is relatively affordable. With a median home value of $136,196, potential investors can secure properties at a lower cost compared to many other regions. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the low 0.2% price-cut share indicate that homes are selling quickly without significant discounts. This suggests that while homes are affordable, competition among buyers could be fierce.
Tenant demand is present but limited. The population of 5,629 residents includes a substantial 40.0% who are renters. Given the small size of the community, this percentage translates into a manageable number of potential tenants, though it does ensure a steady pool of rental applicants.
In conclusion, ZIP 51601 offers an affordable entry point for property acquisition, with a median home value of $136,196. However, the rent math is not favorable due to the gap between the FMR of $930 and the actual market rent of $780. Tenant demand is modest but consistent, with 40.0% of the local population renting. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should proceed with caution, focusing on areas where rents align more closely with FMRs to ensure profitability. Despite the challenges, the affordable home values make this location worth considering for those willing to manage the financial risks associated with rental pricing.
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.