Location: Bourbon County, KS | Metro: Bourbon County, KS
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $990 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,728 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,935 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 66769 stands at $80,000, indicating a relatively stable economic base for its residents. However, the absence of specific market rate data makes it challenging to provide a direct comparison to the household's financial capacity. What we do know is that the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $920, which is the standard payment amount for Section 8 vouchers in this region.
Given the low percentage of renters—only 1.6%—and a total population of 520, the competition among landlords appears minimal. This suggests that there might be a limited pool of tenants available, especially those who rely on rental assistance programs such as Section 8. The affordability gap between the median income and the FMR highlights that while households may have sufficient earnings to cover living expenses, the subsidized rate could still pose a challenge for landlords seeking to maximize their returns.
Landlords operating within ZIP 66769 should carefully consider their tenant acquisition strategy. While accepting Section 8 vouchers ensures a steady stream of income, albeit at a fixed rate of $920, pursuing cash-paying tenants could potentially yield higher rents. However, the scarcity of renters and the overall size of the population mean that landlords must weigh the benefits of guaranteed payments against the risks of vacancy in a market with low demand.
Takeaway: For landlords in ZIP 66769, the decision to accept Section 8 vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants should be based on the balance between stability and potential revenue. Given the limited number of renters and the small population, landlords might find it advantageous to diversify their tenant mix, including both voucher recipients and cash-paying residents, to mitigate the risk of vacancy and ensure a consistent income flow.
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.