Location: Pettis County, MO | Metro: Benton County, MO
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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,702 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,838 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,930 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $980 | $179,538 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $238,334 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 program's financial impact in ZIP code 65078, which encompasses Stover, MO, is critical for landlords and small-portfolio investors to understand. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, while the Census ACS data indicates a current market rent of $753. This creates a significant gap of $217 per month, or approximately 22.5%, between what voucher holders can pay and the actual market rate.
Given that the FMR exceeds the market rent, properties in Stover, MO become attractive for a yield play. Landlords can secure rental income close to the higher FMR rate, which stands at $970, without setting their rents above the competitive market price of $753. This scenario allows investors to benefit from the guaranteed income provided by the Section 8 vouchers, which typically cover the entire rent amount, thus ensuring a steady cash flow even if the property is rented below the FMR.
In Stover, MO, where only 16.3% of residents are renters, the competition for rental properties is relatively low. This means that landlords can expect less pressure from potential tenants to reduce rent. Additionally, with a median home value of $208,159 and a median income of $43,974, many residents may find it challenging to afford homeownership, making them prime candidates for rental properties supported by Section 8 vouchers.
Investing in Section 8 properties in this area can be seen as a strategic move, especially given the financial landscape. The difference between the FMR and market rent provides an opportunity for landlords to receive rental payments at a level closer to the FMR, thereby maximizing their returns. However, it's important to note that participating in the Section 8 program also comes with certain responsibilities and regulations that must be adhered to, such as maintaining the property to certain standards and undergoing regular inspections.
For small-portfolio investors, the stability offered by Section 8 vouchers can be particularly appealing. With the gap between FMR and market rent, they can ensure that their properties are occupied by tenants who can consistently meet their rent obligations, leading to a predictable and reliable source of 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.