Location: Russell 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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,926 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,447 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,120 | $69,775 | 1.61% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,550 | $134,452 | 1.15% | B |
| 4BR | $1,660 | $183,183 | 0.91% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The investment landscape in ZIP code 67544, Kansas, presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 participation. Tenant turnover is a significant concern, as the market rent of $965 falls slightly below the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $980 for fiscal year 2026, which is based on the metro area. This difference can lead to tenants seeking higher rents elsewhere, increasing the likelihood of frequent turnovers.
Vacancy exposure is another risk factor. With an average Days on Market (DOM) being unavailable, it's challenging to predict how long properties might remain vacant between tenancies. A prolonged period of vacancy can significantly impact cash flow, especially when the property is not generating rental income.
Deferred maintenance is also a notable issue. The typical home value in the area is $97,489, while the median income stands at $57,568. This financial gap can make it difficult for landlords to invest in necessary repairs and upgrades without affecting their profit margins. Maintaining the property to meet Section 8 standards requires regular financial outlay, which may be hard to justify if the income generated is not substantial enough.
However, these risks must be weighed against the high concentration of renters in the area. With 27.9% of residents classified as renters, there is a robust demand for rental housing, including those who rely on housing vouchers. This high renter share suggests that there will likely be a steady pool of potential tenants, particularly those using Section 8 vouchers, which can provide a reliable source of income.
In conclusion, the risks associated with tenant turnover, vacancy exposure, and deferred maintenance are present in ZIP 67544. Despite these challenges, the high renter density indicates a strong market for Section 8 properties. Therefore, the overall risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord in this area is moderate.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.