Location: Washington Parish, LA | Metro: Baton Rouge, LA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,360 | $219,008 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
21.0% of residents in ZIP 70444 are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. This statistic, combined with the $749 market rent observed in the area according to Census ACS data, suggests that there is a robust demand for affordable rental units. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 70444 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $950, which is notably higher than the current market rent, implying that properties priced at or near the FMR could attract tenants seeking financial assistance through programs like Section 8.
$170,550 is the median home value in ZIP 70444, reflecting the overall cost of homeownership in the area. However, for investors focused on rental properties, the lower market rent figure of $749 is more relevant. This gap between market rents and the FMR indicates a potential opportunity for landlords who can offer well-maintained properties at or slightly below the FMR to attract Section 8 tenants.
The median income in ZIP 70444 stands at $52,148, providing insight into the economic profile of the area's residents. Given this income level, it is reasonable to expect a portion of the population to qualify for Section 8 assistance, where the maximum allowable rent is typically based on a percentage of their income. With the market rent being significantly lower than the FMR, landlords in this area have a good chance of finding eligible tenants willing to pay the higher FMR rates.
Concerning the real estate market dynamics, the day DOM (Days On Market) is listed as N/A, possibly due to limited data availability or recent changes in reporting. Additionally, the price-cut share is only 0.2%, suggesting that properties in ZIP 70444 generally hold their value and do not require frequent price adjustments to sell. This stability in property values can be beneficial for long-term investment strategies, including those involving Section 8 rentals.
In summary, ZIP 70444 presents a favorable environment for Section 8 investments, with a substantial renter share, a gap between market rents and FMRs, and stable property values. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the potential benefits of participating in the Section 8 program, given the $950 FMR and the $749 average market rent, which together create an attractive scenario for securing steady tenancy. Verdict: ZIP 70444 is a strong candidate for Section 8 investments.
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.