Location: Benton County, IA | Metro: Benton County, IA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $650 |
| 1 Bedroom | $710 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,415 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,585 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,712 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $710 | $86,705 | 0.82% | C |
| 2BR | $930 | $155,093 | 0.6% | F |
| 3BR | $1,200 | $230,744 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,220 | $320,313 | 0.38% | F |
| 5BR | $1,415 | $460,384 | 0.31% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Vinton, Iowa, located in Benton County, stands out among other ZIP codes due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 7,737 residents, 17.1% of whom rent their homes, Vinton has a median household income of $71,314. The median home value in the area is notably high at $238,377, indicating a relatively affluent community.
The voucher economics in ZIP 52349 also present an interesting scenario. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $900, which is higher than the current market rent estimated at $850 according to the Census American Community Survey (ACS). This means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can potentially receive a slightly above-market rental rate, making it a favorable option for those looking to maximize their rental income.
Given the data signature of ZIP 52349, the community appears to be stable rather than transitional. The relatively high median income and home values suggest a strong local economy and a solid housing market. Additionally, the slight premium offered by the FMR over the market rent indicates that the federal government recognizes the higher cost of living in the area, which can be beneficial for both tenants and landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
To summarize, landlords and small-portfolio investors in Vinton should consider accepting Section 8 vouchers as they offer a competitive rental rate. The overall stability of the ZIP code suggests that it is a good long-term investment opportunity, especially for those interested in serving the rental market in an economically sound area.
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.