Location: Muscatine County, 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 | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,902 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,415 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $233,784 | 0.44% | F |
| 3BR | $1,350 | $282,647 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $1,640 | $354,607 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 52773 (Walcott, IA) on the yield and stability axes reveals a unique investment scenario. On the yield axis, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 2024 is set at $860, which is notably higher than the local market rent of $797. This suggests a potential for above-average rental income in this area. However, when considering the median home value of $278,297, the yield appears relatively modest compared to other markets.
Moving to the stability axis, the data indicates that only 18.4% of the population are renters, which is a low percentage and implies less demand for rental properties. The lack of available data on days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to assess the speed at which properties can be rented out. Lastly, the average household income is reported at $85,523, which is a positive indicator for stability, as it suggests tenants have a reasonable ability to pay rent.
Based on these figures, ZIP 52773 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. While the FMR is slightly above the market rent, indicating a potential for higher returns, the low percentage of renters and the relatively high median home value suggest that the market is not particularly volatile. Additionally, the decent average income level supports the likelihood of stable tenancy and consistent cash flow.
To summarize, the investment opportunity in Walcott, IA, offers a balanced approach with moderate yield potential and a degree of stability due to the average income levels. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider these factors carefully before making investment decisions in this ZIP code.
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.