Location: Harper County, KS | Metro: Barber County, KS
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $740 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 67138 presents a unique challenge for renters and landlords alike, given the specific economic conditions and housing dynamics at play. The median income here stands at $61,250, which provides a baseline for understanding the financial capacity of households.
Market rate rent data for ZIP 67138 is currently unavailable, making it difficult to assess how much a typical household might spend on rent. However, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $930. This figure serves as a guideline for what the government deems affordable for a household receiving a housing voucher.
Given that only 6.6% of the 438 residents are renters, the competition for tenants is relatively low. This means landlords have fewer potential tenants to choose from, but it also implies that there could be less pressure to lower rents to attract tenants.
The affordability gap becomes evident when comparing the median income to the FMR. A household earning the median income would struggle to pay the FMR without assistance, as a significant portion of their income would need to go towards rent. This highlights the importance of considering both voucher and cash-paying tenants in the rental strategy.
For landlords, the takeaway is clear. While the competition for tenants is not fierce, relying solely on cash-paying tenants may limit your pool of potential renters. Vouchers can provide a stable source of income, as they cover the majority of the rent. However, landlords must weigh the benefits of voucher payments against the administrative complexity and potential delays in receiving funds.
In summary, ZIP 67138 offers landlords a niche market where competition is minimal, but economic realities suggest that many renters will require some form of assistance. Balancing between voucher and cash-paying tenants is key to maximizing occupancy and income stability.
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.