Location: Dubuque, 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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,332 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,612 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,821 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,962 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,220 | $362,960 | 0.34% | F |
| 3BR | $1,630 | $402,907 | 0.4% | F |
| 4BR | $2,010 | $479,804 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $2,332 | $582,302 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 52068, located in Peosta, IA, within the Dubuque, IA MSA metro area, reveals several key points for potential Section 8 landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The rent math does not work favorably for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $920 for the fiscal year 2024 is significantly lower than the market rent of $1,117 reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This discrepancy means that landlords would be renting their properties below market rates, which could result in financial losses if they do not adjust their expectations accordingly.
Acquisition is moderately affordable given the median home value of $428,872. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes needing price cuts makes it difficult to assess the exact ease of acquiring properties in this area. Landlords should proceed with caution and consider negotiating for better terms due to the absence of these critical metrics.
Tenant demand is limited in ZIP 52068. With a total population of 5,280, only 8.1% are renters, indicating a relatively small pool of potential tenants. This low renter share suggests that finding and retaining tenants might be challenging, especially for those relying solely on Section 8 vouchers.
Overall, ZIP 52068 presents a less favorable investment opportunity for Section 8 landlords and small-portfolio investors. The rent math is not in favor of landlords, acquisition costs are moderate but require careful consideration due to incomplete data, and tenant demand is limited. These factors collectively suggest that while it is possible to invest here, it may not be the most profitable or practical choice compared to other areas with higher renter shares and more favorable rent-to-market ratios.
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.