Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 52581 - 2027

Location: Wayne County, IA | Metro: Appanoose County, IA

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$690
1 Bedroom	$710
2 Bedrooms	$930
3 Bedrooms	$1,140
4 Bedrooms	$1,270
5 Bedrooms	$1,473
6 Bedrooms	$1,650
7 Bedrooms	$1,782
8 Bedrooms	$1,871

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

168

Median Household Income

$55,000

Housing Units

Renter Percentage

11.5%

Occupancy Rate

92.9%

Renter Occupied

The ZIP code 52581, located in Iowa, offers a unique opportunity for real-estate investors interested in the Section 8 housing market. The area has a well-defined profile that can inform investment decisions, particularly regarding rental properties.

Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970. This figure provides a benchmark for landlords to set their rents, ensuring they remain competitive while also attracting tenants eligible for Section 8 subsidies.
The market rent for the area is currently unavailable. This suggests that there might be limited data on typical rental prices outside of the FMR, which could indicate a niche market where Section 8 properties dominate.
The median home value stands at $172,987. This indicates that the area is relatively affordable for both homeowners and investors looking to purchase property.
Renters make up 11.5% of the population in ZIP 52581. While this percentage is not exceptionally high, it still represents a significant portion of potential Section 8 tenants.
The median income in the area is $55,000. This figure helps gauge the economic status of the residents, suggesting that many might rely on government assistance programs such as Section 8 to secure housing.
The number of days on market (DOM) is not available. This lack of data could imply a steady demand for rentals, with properties quickly finding tenants once listed.

The combination of a clearly defined FMR and a median income level that likely necessitates government assistance points to a stable demand for Section 8 properties in ZIP 52581. With a median home value that is relatively low, the area presents a cost-effective entry point for investors. Despite the limited data on market rent and DOM, the 11.5% renter share and the overall economic conditions suggest that there will be a consistent need for affordable housing options. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, focusing on maintaining properties that meet the FMR and are eligible for Section 8 subsidies would be a sound strategy.

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.