Location: Springfield, MO | Metro: Springfield, MO 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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,076 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,325 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,511 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,637 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,130 | $226,055 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $1,560 | $277,726 | 0.56% | F |
| 4BR | $1,790 | $367,392 | 0.49% | F |
| 5BR | $2,076 | $439,927 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A decision tree for investing in ZIP 65619 (Battlefield, MO) for Section 8 properties hinges on three key factors: Fair Market Rent (FMR), market rent, and rental demand.
Step 1: Does the FMR of $880 cover debt service on a $313,291 property?
No: The FMR of $880 does not sufficiently cover the debt service on a property valued at $313,291. Debt service typically includes mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. Given the high value of the property, relying solely on FMR would likely result in financial losses.
Yes: This scenario is unlikely based on the provided data. Proceed to Step 2.
It Depends: This scenario is unlikely based on the provided data. Proceed to Step 2.
Step 2: How does the market rent of $988 compare to the FMR?
Market Rent Above FMR: At $988, the market rent exceeds the FMR of $880. Landlords can potentially charge higher rents to non-Section 8 tenants, which increases the profitability of the investment. However, the ability to do so depends on the local demand for higher-priced rentals.
Market Rent Equal to FMR: This scenario does not apply as the market rent is higher than the FMR.
Market Rent Below FMR: This scenario does not apply as the market rent is higher than the FMR.
Step 3: Is there sufficient rental demand in ZIP 65619?
Yes: With 26.9% of residents renting and an unknown number of days on the market (DOM), there is a moderate level of rental demand. While the exact DOM is not available, a significant portion of the population being renters indicates that there is a steady need for rental housing. Additionally, the ability to charge above FMR suggests that there is some flexibility in pricing, which could cater to a wider range of tenants.
No: This scenario is unlikely given the 26.9% of residents who are renters. However, without knowing the DOM, it's impossible to definitively assess the supply-demand balance.
It Depends: The lack of specific DOM data means that the answer to this question is somewhat ambiguous. If the DOM is low, indicating quick turnover, then the demand is likely strong. Conversely, if the DOM is high, indicating slower turnover, then demand may be weaker. The 26.9% of renters suggests a reasonable base level of demand, but landlords should consider the broader economic context and competition levels before making a decision.
In summary, while the FMR of $880 does not fully support the debt service on a $313,291 property, the higher market rent of $988 offers potential for greater profitability. The presence of 26.9% renters suggests a viable market, but the absence of DOM data makes it difficult to conclusively determine demand strength. Landlords should proceed with caution, considering additional local market analysis and their risk tolerance.
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.