Location: Clinton County, IA | Metro: Clinton County, IA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $720 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 52774 is situated in a rural area of Iowa, characterized by a predominantly residential landscape. With a population of 101, it is clear that this is a sparsely populated region where the community is tightly knit. Renters make up only 15.8% of the residents, indicating a strong preference for homeownership among the locals. The median household income stands at $71,250, which suggests a relatively stable economic base, though without a median home value figure, we cannot fully assess the local real estate market dynamics.
Moving into the specifics of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 52774 is set at $1,030 for fiscal year 2026, as per the metropolitan guidelines. In contrast, the current market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $925. This discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent provides an opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors who can manage properties efficiently. They can potentially benefit from the higher reimbursement rates offered under the Section 8 program, while still charging rents that align with the local market conditions.
Given these characteristics, ZIP 52774 might be best suited for a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The low population density and limited number of renters suggest that there is a smaller pool of potential tenants. Moreover, the relatively high FMR compared to the market rent indicates that landlords could receive above-market rental payments without needing to actively improve or renovate their properties. However, for those interested in value-add strategies, the stable income levels and the gap between FMR and market rent present an opportunity to attract Section 8 tenants by offering slightly better accommodations or services, thereby commanding rents closer to the FMR without significant capital investment.
In summary, ZIP 52774 offers a niche opportunity for Section 8 landlords, particularly those who can capitalize on the difference between the FMR and the current market rent. The demographic profile points towards a manageable tenant pool, making it ideal for hands-off operators. For hands-on investors, the potential exists to create value through strategic enhancements, leveraging the financial support of the Section 8 program to increase profitability.
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.