Location: Perkins County, NE | Metro: Hayes County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,589 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,922 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 69169, located in Perkins County, Nebraska, presents an interesting opportunity for inclusion within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This area is best categorized as a cash-flow anchor. The primary reason for this classification is the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent, as well as the median home value.
In FY 2026, the FMR for the metro area around ZIP 69169 is set at $960. However, the current market rent stands at $584, indicating a substantial gap that landlords can leverage to ensure steady cash flow. This means that if you have a property in this area, you can potentially rent it out at a rate higher than the market average but still below the FMR threshold required for Section 8 eligibility, thus maximizing your rental income while remaining competitive.
The median home value in ZIP 69169 is listed at $189,473, which is relatively low compared to many other areas in the United States. This makes it easier to acquire properties without a large capital investment, thereby increasing the potential for positive cash flow.
ZIP 69169 is not particularly suitable as an appreciation play due to the lack of specific data regarding price-cut shares and days on market (DOM). These metrics would typically indicate whether properties in the area are appreciating or depreciating, but they are not provided here.
Nor does this ZIP code stand out as a diversifier. While the renter share is 41.0%, and the median income is $49,375, these figures do not suggest a high level of demand or growth potential that would make it a standout choice for diversification.
Given the financial metrics available, ZIP 69169 serves as a solid cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The difference between the FMR and market rent ensures that landlords can secure reliable income streams, making it a stable component of any investment portfolio focused on this housing assistance program.
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.