Location: Trego County, KS | Metro: Ellis 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 | $670 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,833 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,217 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,328 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $960 | $99,282 | 0.97% | C |
| 3BR | $1,290 | $184,567 | 0.7% | D |
| 4BR | $1,580 | $232,723 | 0.68% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 67637, located in Ellis, Kansas, stands at $74,281. This figure is crucial when considering the financial landscape for both renters and landlords. However, the market rate for rent is listed as N/A, which means there is no specific data available regarding the typical rental costs in this area. This lack of information makes it challenging to assess whether households can afford the local rent without knowing the exact figures.
In contrast, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $880. This is the standard amount that Section 8 vouchers will cover. Given the median income, a household could reasonably afford this amount, assuming they allocate an appropriate portion of their earnings towards housing expenses.
The ZIP code has a population of 2,711, with 21.8% being renters. This indicates a relatively small pool of potential tenants, which could intensify competition among landlords. The affordability gap, represented by the unknown market rate versus the FMR, is significant. If the actual market rate exceeds $880, many renters might find it difficult to pay the difference out-of-pocket, leading them to prefer subsidized housing options.
For landlords, the decision between accepting voucher payments or focusing on cash-paying tenants depends on several factors. Vouchers provide a guaranteed and stable income source, albeit at a fixed rate of $880. Cash-paying tenants could potentially offer higher rents if the market rate is indeed above the voucher amount, but the smaller number of renters and the likelihood of affordability issues must be considered.
The takeaway for landlords is that while there is a limited tenant pool, the presence of Section 8 vouchers can be a reliable income stream. Accepting vouchers ensures a steady flow of rent payments, which can be particularly beneficial in a small market where finding tenants willing and able to pay potentially higher rates might be challenging. Landlords should also be prepared to compete on quality and amenities, as the affordability gap may push some renters towards subsidized options.
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.