Location: Powell County, MT | Metro: Powell County, MT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,624 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,834 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,976 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 59731 in Powell County, Montana, reveals several key points that landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider.
The first question is whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,230. However, the lack of available market rent data makes it difficult to directly compare the two figures. This absence of market data suggests either limited rental activity or insufficient reporting, which could be a red flag for potential investors.
Secondly, regarding the affordability of acquisition, the median home value stands at $395,134. Without specific data on the days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes requiring price cuts, it's challenging to gauge how competitive the housing market is. Typically, lower DOM and fewer price cuts indicate a stronger seller's market, which might make acquisitions less affordable. The current data does not provide enough detail to draw a definitive conclusion on this aspect.
Lastly, the tenant demand in ZIP 59731 must be evaluated. With a population of 198 and only 3.8% of residents being renters, the pool of potential tenants is quite limited. This low renter share suggests that the majority of the local population owns their homes, which could lead to challenges in finding and retaining tenants.
Verdict: Investing in ZIP 59731 presents significant risks. The lack of market rent data makes it hard to ensure the rent math works favorably. The median home value is relatively high, indicating that acquisition costs may be prohibitive. Furthermore, the limited tenant base and low renter share suggest weak demand for rental properties. These factors combined point towards a less attractive investment opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking stable returns and occupancy rates.
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.