Location: Wapello County, IA | Metro: Mahaska 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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,578 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,767 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,908 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,003 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $141,731 | 0.73% | D |
| 3BR | $1,330 | $202,248 | 0.66% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 52553, located in Eddyville, IA, within the Wapello County, IA metro area, presents an interesting mix of characteristics that can be compared to the broader county trends. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,040. This figure serves as a benchmark for housing affordability and is influenced by local market conditions.
In contrast to the metro-wide FMR, the actual market rent in ZIP 52553 is notably lower at $732. This discrepancy suggests that the rental market in this ZIP code is less expensive than the average across the entire metro area. Additionally, the median home value in 52553 stands at $185,500, which is also likely below the countywide average, indicating that homeownership is relatively affordable here.
A key metric for landlords and small-portfolio investors is the percentage of renters in the population. In ZIP 52553, the renter share is 21.4%, which is a significant portion of the housing market. Given the combination of a below-metro market rent and a substantial renter share, it's reasonable to infer that this ZIP code could represent a value pocket within the Wapello County metro. Such areas are often attractive to low-income renters who rely on government assistance programs like Section 8.
The high renter share coupled with below-average home values and rental rates points to a scenario where Section 8 vouchers might be particularly useful for tenants. This dynamic can make ZIP 52553 an appealing location for landlords who are willing to participate in the Section 8 program, as it offers a steady stream of tenants who can afford the lower rents without compromising on the quality of the investment property.
To summarize, ZIP 52553 in Eddyville, IA, is positioned as a value pocket within the Wapello County metro. Its lower market rent and home values, combined with a notable renter share, indicate a favorable environment for Section 8 tenants and landlords who cater to this demographic.
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.