Location: Whiteside County, IL | Metro: Lee County, IL
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,462 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,637 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,768 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $960 | $100,923 | 0.95% | C |
| 3BR | $1,260 | $167,619 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $1,260 | $203,021 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 61071 (Rock Falls, IL) hinges on the balance between yield and stability, which are critical factors for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $940, while the market rent stands at $797. This indicates that there is potential for higher rental yields when compared to the broader Rock Falls market. However, the median home value of $114,890 suggests that the real estate in this area is relatively affordable, making it a viable option for both rental and potential flipping activities.
Evaluating stability, the area has a 24.2% rental rate, which is modest but still provides a decent pool of tenants. The lack of data on the average days on market (DOM) for rentals could indicate either a well-balanced market or an underdeveloped rental market, where supply and demand are not well recorded. The median household income of $60,508 offers insight into the financial capacity of potential tenants, suggesting a moderate ability to pay rent.
Given these metrics, ZIP 61071 appears to be a market that leans towards offering steady cash flow rather than being a high-yield, low-stability flip-style market. The modest rental rate and median income figures point towards a stable tenant base capable of consistent rental payments. While the FMR exceeds the market rent, indicating potential for higher yields, the overall affordability and median income suggest that rapid appreciation or flipping opportunities are limited. Therefore, for landlords and small-portfolio investors, this area is best suited for properties aimed at generating reliable, long-term rental income.
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.