Location: Clayton 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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,040 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,529 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,059 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,212 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,770 | $386,255 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 52073 presents a unique balance between yield and stability, making it an interesting market for real estate investment. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $970 for fiscal year 2024, which is notably lower than the current market rent of $1,072. This suggests that there is potential for higher rental yields if properties can be acquired at or below the FMR levels.
However, the stability of this market is somewhat compromised. Only 10.4% of residents are renters, indicating a relatively low demand for rental properties. Additionally, the median household income in the area is $95,526, which could support higher rents but also implies that many residents might prefer homeownership over renting. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) further complicates the assessment of property turnover speed.
The median home value in ZIP 52073 is $368,989, which is a significant figure. This high home value, combined with the low percentage of renters, points towards a market where flipping properties for quick profits might be challenging due to limited rental demand. Instead, this area seems better suited for long-term investments aimed at steady cash flow rather than high-yield, short-term gains.
To summarize, ZIP 52073 is more aligned with a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. The relatively low rental demand and high median home value suggest that investors should focus on acquiring properties at or below the FMR of $970 to ensure profitability. While the market rent of $1,072 offers a chance for above-average yields, the overall environment leans towards stability and long-term returns.
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.