Location: Winona County, MN | Metro: La Crosse-Onalaska, WI-MN HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $950 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,297 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,779 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,918 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,240 | $280,430 | 0.44% | F |
| 3BR | $1,580 | $348,284 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $1,980 | $443,530 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $2,297 | $520,368 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 55947, located in La Crescent, Minnesota, stands out within Houston County due to several key characteristics. With a population of 7,403 residents, it has a rental rate of 12.7%, which is notably lower than the national average. The median income in this area is $88,611, reflecting a middle-class community. Additionally, the median home value of $354,503 is significantly higher than the state average, indicating a stable and affluent local housing market.
The economic landscape of La Crescent is further defined by the dynamics between Section 8 vouchers and market rents. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 55947 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,120, whereas the Census ACS reports the market rent at $883. This discrepancy suggests that landlords can expect a higher rental income when participating in the Section 8 program compared to the local market rates. The increased FMR provides an incentive for property owners to consider enrolling their units in the Section 8 program, potentially attracting a broader range of tenants who benefit from government assistance.
Based on the data signature, ZIP 55947 appears to be a stable area. The relatively high median home value and income levels indicate a consistent economic environment. However, the lower percentage of renters might suggest a slight transitional element, as changes in the local economy could impact the rental market. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, the opportunity to leverage Section 8 vouchers for higher rental income while maintaining a stable investment environment presents a compelling strategy for property management in La Crescent.
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.