Location: Stafford County, KS | Metro: Barton County, KS
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,659 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,107 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $960 | $71,704 | 1.34% | A |
| 3BR | $1,330 | $151,207 | 0.88% | C |
| 4BR | $1,430 | $186,713 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 67526, which encompasses Ellinwood, Kansas, stands at $57,824. The market rate for rent, according to Census ACS data, is $679 per month. This suggests that a significant portion of households in Ellinwood may struggle to afford the average rental property based on their income levels. For context, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $880, which is notably higher than the current market rate.
The discrepancy between the median income and the FMR indicates a substantial affordability gap for renters in Ellinwood. With only 24.1% of the 2,621 residents being renters, competition among landlords could be fierce as they vie for a limited pool of tenants. This competition may drive down rents below the FMR level, making it challenging for landlords to maintain profitability without relying on government assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers.
Landlords in Ellinwood should consider the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers. While the voucher payment standard is $880, which exceeds the current market rate, it ensures a steady and reliable source of income. In contrast, cash-paying tenants might find it difficult to sustain regular payments given the lower median income. Accepting vouchers can stabilize cash flow and reduce the risk of vacancies due to financial constraints faced by local renters.
Takeaway: Landlords in Ellinwood should weigh the advantages of accepting Section 8 vouchers against the potential challenges of renting to cash-paying tenants who may struggle with affordability. Vouchers provide a guaranteed income at a rate above the current market, potentially offering greater security and stability in a competitive rental market.
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.