Location: Keith County, NE | Metro: Arthur County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 69144, located in Keith County, NE, reveals key insights for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The rent math does not work favorably here. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $980. However, the market rent is listed as N/A, which suggests that either the data is incomplete or the market rent might be below the FMR. Without accurate market rent data, it's challenging to determine if the rental income will cover expenses and provide a profit margin.
Acquisition affordability is also unclear due to the lack of specific data points. The median home value is listed as N/A, indicating insufficient information on property values. Additionally, the Days on Market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that have had their prices cut are both marked as N/A, which makes it difficult to assess the local housing market's dynamics and whether properties are being sold at a discount.
Tenant demand appears to be low. With a total population of only 145, the number of potential renters is limited. Despite the high renter share of 55.4%, the small overall population means there are just 79 renters in the area. This low number could result in fierce competition among landlords for tenants, potentially driving down rental rates and occupancy levels.
Verdict: Based on the available data, ZIP code 69144 presents significant challenges for real estate investment. The lack of clear market rent data and the limited population size make it difficult to ensure a steady stream of tenants and profitable rental income. Landlords and investors should proceed with caution and seek additional information before considering investment in this area.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.