Location: Perkins County, NE | Metro: Keith County, NE
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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $800 | $114,841 | 0.7% | D |
| 2BR | $1,010 | $165,802 | 0.61% | D |
| 3BR | $1,230 | $234,513 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,410 | $263,060 | 0.54% | F |
| 5BR | $1,636 | $334,523 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 69153, located in Ogallala, Nebraska, within Keith County, stands out due to its relatively low population density and unique economic profile. With only 5,812 residents, it has a modest rental market where 27.3% of the population rents their homes. The median income in this area is $61,946, which is slightly above the national average, indicating a middle-class community. The median home value of $218,675 reflects the general housing affordability in the region.
When analyzing the potential impact of Section 8 vouchers on the local rental market, it's crucial to consider the Fair Market Rent (FMR) versus the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR for the metro area is set at $960. In contrast, the Census ACS data shows that the market rent is significantly lower at $665. This disparity suggests that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers could see an increase in rental income compared to the typical market rate.
The data signature for ZIP 69153 indicates a stable environment. The median income is consistent with the cost of living in the area, and the rental percentage is not unusually high, suggesting that the housing market is balanced. While the difference between the FMR and the market rent implies a potential for growth in rental income for those accepting Section 8 vouchers, the overall economic indicators do not suggest a transitional phase but rather a steady state. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the stability of the area alongside the financial benefits of participating in the Section 8 program.
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.