Location: Roberts County, SD | Metro: Grant County, SD
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $870 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,800 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,088 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,339 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,526 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,652 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP code 57252, located in Roberts County, South Dakota, does not align favorably for potential investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $930, which is higher than the current market rent of $729 according to Census ACS data. However, this discrepancy suggests that achieving the FMR might be challenging without significant improvements or unique offerings, as the current market indicates lower rental rates.
Regarding acquisition affordability, the median home value stands at $219,713, which is relatively low compared to national averages. Unfortunately, the data does not provide insights into the days on market (DOM) or the percentage of homes that have been listed with price cuts. This lack of information makes it difficult to assess the ease of acquiring properties at favorable terms. Nonetheless, the low median home value could still represent an opportunity for investors looking to enter the market with a smaller capital outlay.
Tenant demand in ZIP 57252 is moderate given the total population of 4,883 individuals and a 27.5% renter share. This means approximately 1,344 residents are actively seeking rental housing. While the number of potential tenants is not overwhelming, it is sufficient to sustain a small portfolio of rental properties, especially if the investor can cater to the needs of local renters effectively.
Verdict: Investing in ZIP 57252 presents a mixed picture. The current market rent is below the FMR, indicating a need for competitive pricing strategies or property enhancements. Acquisition costs are reasonable, but the absence of specific data on DOM and price-cut shares adds uncertainty. Tenant demand is present but limited, suitable for small-scale investments rather than large portfolios. Investors should proceed cautiously, focusing on cost-effective acquisitions and understanding the local rental market dynamics.
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.