Location: Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA | Metro: Davenport-Moline-Rock Island, IA-IL 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 | $1,180 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,946 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,300 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,564 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,742 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,580 | $258,967 | 0.61% | D |
| 3BR | $2,090 | $350,316 | 0.6% | F |
| 4BR | $2,540 | $467,009 | 0.54% | F |
| 5BR | $2,946 | $557,266 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 52753, which includes Le Claire, Iowa, stands at $103,813. This figure places the average market rent of $1,564 within reach for many households, but it also highlights a significant disparity when compared to the federal payment standard for housing vouchers, which is set at $1,180 for the fiscal year 2024.
To put this into perspective, let’s consider the affordability gap. A household earning the median income could theoretically allocate a portion of their earnings towards the market rent without financial strain. However, the voucher payment standard is notably lower, indicating that tenants relying on vouchers might find it challenging to secure housing at market rates. The gap between the $1,564 market rent and the $1,180 voucher payment standard suggests a substantial difference in rental costs, which could influence tenant choices and landlord strategies.
With 20.1% of the 6,020 population being renters, there is a competitive landscape for landlords. The discrepancy between market rents and voucher payments means that landlords who accept vouchers might face lower occupancy rates due to the limited funds available to voucher recipients. Conversely, those who cater to cash-paying tenants might enjoy higher demand, given the relative affluence of the area.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to accept vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants is clear. While the median income supports higher market rents, the voucher payment standard falls short. Landlords should weigh the benefits of steady, government-backed income from vouchers against the potential for higher rent from cash-paying tenants. Given the competition and the income levels, landlords might benefit from offering both options to maximize their occupancy rates and adapt to the diverse needs of the local rental market.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.