Location: McLean County, ND | Metro: Ward County, ND 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 | $960 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,204 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,468 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,665 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,798 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,570 | $164,533 | 0.95% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 58759, located in the McLean County, ND metro area, can serve as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The key factor supporting this designation is the favorable spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 and the current market rent. Specifically, the FMR for ZIP 58759 is set at $1,010, while the average market rent stands at $950. This $60 positive spread ensures that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can maintain stable cash flows, even if market rents fluctuate.
The median home value in ZIP 58759 is $169,670. This figure is important because it indicates the overall cost of property acquisition in the area. For small-portfolio investors, this relatively low median home value means that they can enter the market with less capital compared to higher-cost areas, thereby maximizing their investment potential and ensuring that their properties remain affordable under the Section 8 program.
While there are no specific percentages given for price-cut shares or days on market (DOM), the lack of these metrics does not detract from the cash-flow anchor potential. In fact, the absence of significant price cuts and quick sales suggests a stable housing market, which aligns well with the goal of maintaining consistent rental income.
The 13.0% renter share and median income of $87,321 provide additional context. Although these figures suggest that a majority of residents own homes, the presence of a modest renter population indicates demand for rental units, including those supported by Section 8 vouchers. The median income figure, while not directly tied to rental rates, implies a middle-class community where residents are likely to benefit from affordable housing options.
In conclusion, ZIP 58759 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio due to the positive spread between FMR and market rent, coupled with a manageable median home value. This strategic positioning allows landlords and small-portfolio investors to ensure steady income streams, which are critical for long-term financial stability and growth.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.