Location: Rawlins County, KS | Metro: Rawlins 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 | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,844 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,342 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $91,252 | 1.18% | B |
| 3BR | $1,290 | $146,630 | 0.88% | C |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $173,072 | 0.92% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 program's impact in Atwood, Kansas, specifically within ZIP code 67730, can be analyzed through the disparity between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR in the metro area is set at $960, while the Census ACS reports the market rent at $725. This represents a gap of $235, or approximately 32.6%, where the FMR exceeds the market rent.
This situation makes properties in Atwood an attractive yield play for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The higher FMR means that voucher holders can pay up to $960 for rent, which is significantly above the local market rate. Given that only 30.6% of residents are renters, there is a relatively low competition for rental units, making it easier to attract voucher tenants who will pay closer to the FMR rather than the lower market rent.
In Atwood, with a median home value of $140,355 and a median income of $66,250, landlords can benefit from the additional financial support provided by the government through Section 8 vouchers. This allows them to charge rents that are closer to the FMR, thereby increasing their cash flow and overall investment yield. Moreover, since the market rent is below the FMR, landlords can offer competitive rents to voucher holders without compromising on profitability.
However, it's crucial to note the implications of accepting Section 8 tenants. While they provide a steady stream of income, landlords must comply with HUD regulations, which include regular inspections and maintenance standards. Additionally, the administrative burden and potential delays in receiving payments can affect the landlord's cash flow management. Despite these challenges, the opportunity to receive higher rents compared to the local market makes Atwood a favorable location for Section 8 investments.
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.