Location: Appanoose County, IA | Metro: Appanoose County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,868 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,259 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,372 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 52555 stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With only 193 residents, it is one of the smallest ZIP codes in terms of population. Despite its small size, 48.3% of the residents rent their homes, indicating a significant portion of the housing market is dedicated to rental properties. The median income in this area is relatively low at $36,161, which could pose challenges for both renters and homeowners alike. However, the median home value is quite high at $127,558, suggesting that while the income level is modest, there is still a considerable investment in residential property.
Moving to the specifics of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,170. This figure represents the government's benchmark for rental costs, which is higher than the current market rate of $944, based on Census ACS data. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of this discrepancy, as it means that tenants using Section 8 vouchers can potentially cover a larger portion of the rent compared to those paying market rates. This could be particularly beneficial in an area where the median income is lower, as it helps bridge the gap between what residents can afford and the cost of living.
Given the data signature, ZIP 52555 appears to be a transitional area. The significant difference between the FMR and the actual market rent suggests that the local rental market might be adjusting to align with government standards. Additionally, the combination of a low median income and a high median home value indicates potential shifts in the housing market, possibly due to changes in local employment, migration patterns, or other socioeconomic factors. Investors should monitor these trends closely to make informed decisions about their investments in this ZIP code.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.