Location: Taney County, MO | Metro: Taney 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 | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,330 | $248,170 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 65679 stands at $48,442, which places significant constraints on households looking to afford the market rate rent of $908 per month. This figure represents the average rent price based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, indicating the typical cost tenants face in the area.
Interestingly, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $900, closely aligning with the market rate but still leaving a small gap. The FMR is the amount that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) determines as reasonable for rental housing in a given area, and it is used to establish payment standards for housing assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers.
In ZIP 65679, where 34.8% of the 2,942 residents are renters, the affordability gap is a critical factor. It means that even with a Section 8 voucher, which covers up to the FMR, many tenants will still struggle to find housing within their budget. Landlords must be aware that this competition for affordable units is intense, especially since the voucher payment is just slightly below the market rate.
For landlords considering their strategy between accepting vouchers versus relying on cash-paying tenants, the data suggests a nuanced approach. While vouchers ensure a steady stream of rent payments, they may also limit the pool of potential tenants to those who can only afford the lower end of the market rate. On the other hand, cash-paying tenants might offer higher rents but come with greater risks associated with late payments or non-payment.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: understanding the local economic conditions and the specific needs of your tenant base is crucial. Accepting vouchers can help fill units in a competitive market while providing financial security, though it means adhering to HUD regulations and potentially lower rental income. Cash-paying tenants offer flexibility and the possibility of higher rent but require careful screening to mitigate financial risks.
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.