Location: Kansas City, MO | Metro: Kansas City, MO-KS 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 | $1,190 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,300 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,920 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,668 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,388 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,470 | $230,103 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $1,920 | $292,722 | 0.66% | D |
| 4BR | $2,300 | $389,792 | 0.59% | F |
| 5BR | $2,668 | $461,610 | 0.58% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 64015, located within the Blue Springs, MO, and the larger Kansas City, MO-KS HUD Metro FMR Area, presents a strategic opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to anchor their cash flow. This ZIP code has a Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 set at $1220, while the market rent stands at $1,523. The difference between these two figures highlights the potential for steady, reliable income when properties are leased through the Section 8 program.
A key metric to consider is the spread between the FMR and the market rent, which in this case is $303 per month. This spread means that landlords can secure a consistent rental income without the volatility often associated with market rents. Given the median home value in ZIP 64015 is $310,206, the FMR provides a stable base that can help mitigate risks in a broader investment portfolio.
The 0.2% price-cut share and a 10-day Days on Market (DOM) indicate a highly competitive market environment where properties are selling quickly. However, these metrics are less relevant for a long-term rental strategy focused on cash flow stability. Instead, the focus should be on the guaranteed rental income from Section 8, which is less affected by short-term market fluctuations.
The 27.8% renter share and a median income of $84,518 suggest a diverse population with a mix of homeowners and renters. While this could make the area a good candidate for diversification, the primary appeal for a Section 8 portfolio lies in its ability to serve as a cash-flow anchor. The higher median income indicates a strong local economy, which supports the stability of the tenant base and the likelihood of timely rent payments.
In conclusion, ZIP 64015 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The significant spread between the FMR and market rent, combined with the robust local economy, ensures a dependable revenue stream. Landlords and investors should prioritize this ZIP code for properties they wish to include in their Section 8 portfolios, leveraging the $303 monthly advantage over the FMR to maintain financial stability amidst market uncertainties.
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.