Location: Delaware County, IA | Metro: Dubuque, IA MSA
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 | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,340 | $305,620 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $1,650 | $362,695 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market dynamics in ZIP code 52065 reveal a snapshot indicative of a balanced yet evolving rental landscape. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $860 for the fiscal year 2024, landlords can align their rental pricing to meet federal guidelines, ensuring compliance and fair competition. The current market rent stands at $733, according to recent Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, suggesting that actual rents are slightly below the FMR, which could indicate either a competitive market or a lag in rent adjustments.
The median home value in ZIP 52065 is $317,615, providing insight into the overall affordability and desirability of homeownership in the area. While the percentage of price-cut share and days on market (DOM) are not available, the lower market rent compared to the FMR implies that there might be some flexibility in pricing, allowing tenants to negotiate better deals. This could also suggest a slight oversupply of rental units, but it's crucial to consider other factors before making such a conclusion.
A 10.6% renter share points towards a predominantly owner-occupied community. In such a scenario, long-term housing pressure is likely to remain moderate unless there are significant shifts in the local economy or demographics. However, the presence of any renters signals an ongoing need for affordable housing options, even if the demand is not overwhelming. Landlords should be aware of the potential for increased rental demand if economic conditions change, such as job growth or migration trends.
The interplay between homeownership and rental markets is critical for understanding the overall housing dynamics. A higher median home value relative to the market rent suggests that homeownership is more prevalent and potentially more attractive in the area. This balance could mean that landlords have a steady, albeit not explosive, demand for rental properties, making it a stable but modestly growing market.
In summary, ZIP 52065 presents a market where rental demand is met but not exceeded, with a fair margin for negotiation due to the gap between FMR and market rent. The relatively high median home value and low renter share point to a community leaning towards homeownership, which implies a stable but cautious outlook for small-portfolio investors and landlords.
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.