Location: Wright County, MO | Metro: Laclede 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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,320 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,598 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,806 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,946 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,600 | $226,685 | 0.71% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 65552 stands at $63,894, which places significant constraints on the financial capabilities of households when it comes to paying rent. The market rate for rent, as per the Census ACS, is set at $880. This figure represents a substantial portion of the average household's monthly earnings, indicating a challenging environment for renters.
To put this into perspective, the household median income would allow for a maximum monthly housing cost of approximately $1,597 based on the general guideline that housing costs should not exceed 30% of income. However, the actual market rate of $880 is below this threshold, suggesting that while renting at market rates is feasible, it leaves little room for other expenses. This is particularly relevant when comparing the market rate to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard for Section 8 vouchers, which is set at $1,140 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026. This discrepancy highlights a significant affordability gap for those relying on government assistance.
With only 12.7% of the 2,378 residents being renters, the competition for tenants is likely to be intense. Landlords must consider the balance between accepting voucher payments, which guarantee a steady income but at a lower rate than the FMR, and attracting cash-paying tenants who might offer higher rents but come with the risk of default due to financial instability.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: the strategy should be tailored to the local economic conditions and tenant preferences. Accepting vouchers ensures a stable occupancy rate and predictable income, though at a lower amount than the market rate. On the other hand, targeting cash-paying tenants could lead to higher rental incomes but requires careful screening to mitigate the risk of non-payment. Given the limited number of renters and the affordability gap, landlords in ZIP 65552 should prepare for a competitive landscape and weigh the benefits of both approaches carefully.
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.