Location: Washington County, KS | Metro: Republic County, KS
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,868 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,259 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,372 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 66960 stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With only 125 residents, it is one of the smallest ZIP codes in terms of population. Only 4.3% of these residents are renters, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. The median income of $50,208 suggests a middle-class area where most residents can afford housing without assistance.
Despite the low rental rate, the Section 8 voucher program plays a significant role in this ZIP code. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $880. However, the lack of data on the median home value and the market rent makes it challenging to assess the exact impact of these vouchers. Given the limited number of renters, any increase in voucher usage could potentially influence the local rental market significantly.
The absence of market rent data means that landlords should be cautious when setting their rental prices. They must consider the FMR figure as a guideline but also take into account the local economic conditions and the ability of potential tenants to contribute to the rent. Since the majority of residents are homeowners, the demand for rentals might remain stable unless there are external factors that change the ZIP code's dynamics, such as new development or shifts in the local economy.
In summary, ZIP 66960 presents a stable environment with a low percentage of renters. The Section 8 voucher program operates with an FMR of $880, which landlords should use as a reference point for setting rents. While the overall data signature indicates stability, landlords should monitor local trends closely to ensure they are pricing their properties appropriately.
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.