Location: Lawrence County, MO | Metro: Lawrence County, MO
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,763 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,133 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 65664, located in Lawrence County, Missouri, reveals several key points regarding rental investments. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $890. However, the market rent data for this specific area is currently unavailable, which makes direct comparisons challenging.
Based on the HUD FMR alone, landlords can expect that voucher tenants will cashflow at the FMR rate in this region. This is because the FMR represents the maximum amount that the federal government will pay towards a tenant's rent, ensuring that landlords receive a fixed income that covers their costs and provides a profit margin. In the absence of higher market rents, the FMR serves as a reliable benchmark for rental income.
The median home value in the area is also not available, making it difficult to calculate an exact rent-to-price ratio. However, given the rural setting of Lawrence County, it is likely that the median home values are lower compared to urban areas, potentially leading to a favorable rent-to-price ratio for investors. This ratio is crucial for understanding the relative affordability of renting versus buying, and it can influence the types of properties that attract both voucher tenants and potential buyers.
The days on market (DOM) and price-cut share percentages are also not provided, which means we cannot accurately assess the speed of property sales or the frequency of price reductions in the area. Nevertheless, these metrics would be important to consider if the rent-versus-buy dynamics were significant in influencing investment decisions.
The strongest angle for Section 8 investors in ZIP 65664 is likely to be stability. With a guaranteed rent through the voucher program, investors can rely on steady cash flow without the risks associated with fluctuating market rents. This predictability is particularly valuable in a region where market data is sparse and less reliable, offering a secure investment opportunity.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.