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 | $1,030 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,990 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,308 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,585 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,792 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,932 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,120 | $63,086 | 1.78% | A+ |
| 2BR | $1,270 | $85,285 | 1.49% | A |
| 3BR | $1,660 | $108,152 | 1.53% | A+ |
| 4BR | $1,990 | $121,390 | 1.64% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
39.1% of residents in ZIP 64126, Kansas City, MO, are renters, indicating a significant demand for rental properties. The $1050 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 64126 as of fiscal year 2024 underscores the competitive rental environment, where landlords can expect to charge close to this figure for Section 8 eligible units. This is slightly higher than the $1,033 reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey for the market rent, suggesting that the FMR is a reasonable benchmark for pricing. Given the median home value of $88,288, it's clear that this area offers affordable housing options, making it attractive for both first-time buyers and investors looking to enter the market at lower acquisition costs. The median income of $39,934 reflects the economic profile of the area, which aligns well with the affordability of homes and rentals. Although the days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut share are not available, the data suggests that there is a steady flow of tenants willing to pay the FMR, ensuring consistent occupancy rates. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, the opportunity to leverage the Section 8 program in ZIP 64126 presents a reliable source of income with minimal vacancy risk.
The Fair Market Rent of $1050 for a two-bedroom unit in ZIP 64126 is a key figure for investors considering the Section 8 program. It provides a clear guideline for setting rents that will attract tenants while ensuring compliance with HUD standards. The slight difference between the FMR and the market rent ($1,033) indicates a healthy balance between government subsidies and market dynamics, offering landlords a predictable revenue stream. With a median income of $39,934, many residents qualify for the Section 8 program, which can help fill vacancies quickly and maintain a stable cash flow. The low median home value of $88,288 also means that property acquisition costs are manageable, allowing for a positive return on investment even when accounting for the lower rents associated with subsidized housing.
Investors should note that the Section 8 program in ZIP 64126 can provide a solid foundation for building a rental portfolio. The high renter share of 39.1% ensures a large pool of potential tenants, and the FMR of $1050 is set to cover most of the rental cost for qualified tenants. While the lack of specific DOM and price-cut share data limits some insights, the overall economic conditions and housing market trends suggest that the program remains a viable option for securing long-term, stable tenancies. The verdict on Section 8 in ZIP 64126 is positive, offering a dependable path to investment success for those willing to navigate the program's requirements.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.