Location: Grant County, NE | Metro: Arthur County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis for ZIP code 69366 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, while the Census ACS data indicates that the market rent stands at $1,056. This results in a difference of $86, or approximately 8.9%, where the market rent exceeds the FMR.
This discrepancy means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers will be renting their properties below the prevailing market rate. In ZIP 69366, with 25.2% of residents being renters and a median household income of $93,750, the cost of housing voucher tenants becomes a critical consideration. While the voucher program guarantees timely payments, landlords must weigh this against the lower rental income relative to the market rate.
To put this into perspective, if a landlord has a property that could command $1,056 in rent, accepting a Section 8 tenant would mean receiving only $970. This represents a loss of $86 per month, or nearly $1,032 annually, on the rental income. For small-portfolio investors, this can impact overall returns and cash flow.
Despite these considerations, the stability provided by the Section 8 program—such as consistent monthly payments and government-backed support—can still make it an attractive option for certain landlords and investors. However, the decision should be made with a clear understanding of the financial implications, particularly in a region where the market rents are higher than the FMR.
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.