Location: Meade County, KS | Metro: Meade 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 | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $960 | $63,507 | 1.51% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,220 | $137,286 | 0.89% | C |
| 4BR | $1,420 | $187,047 | 0.76% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in Meade, Kansas (ZIP 67864), particularly concerning the Section 8 market, presents a nuanced scenario for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The median home value stands at $117,306, which is a critical figure to consider when evaluating the potential for rental income and property appreciation.
The fact that the percentage of listings reduced and the median days on market (DOM) are not available points to a relatively stable market without significant fluctuations in recent times. This stability suggests that there is likely a consistent demand for housing, supporting steady occupancy rates and rental incomes.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is projected at $880, while the current market rent is reported at $767 according to Census ACS data. This indicates an upward trend in rental prices, which could be beneficial for landlords who are able to gradually increase their rents to align with the FMR. The gap between the current market rent and the projected FMR signals potential for growth in rental income, assuming the local economy supports such increases.
For long-term investors, the setup in Meade, Kansas, does not strongly suggest a robust appreciation thesis based on the provided data. The median home value has remained steady, and without historical context or additional economic indicators, it's difficult to assert significant capital gains in the near future. However, the potential for rental income growth provides a solid foundation for investment returns, especially given the current disparity between market rent and the anticipated FMR.
The combination of a stable median home value and a growing rental market implies that landlords and investors can expect to maintain their current pricing power and potentially enhance it through modest rent hikes. This approach allows for leveraging the current economic conditions without overreaching into speculative territory. The key for success will be in maintaining properties to meet the rising standards implied by the FMR, thereby ensuring a steady stream of tenants willing to pay closer to the higher rental rates.
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.