Location: Jefferson Davis Parish, LA | Metro: Acadia Parish, LA HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,601 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,936 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,033 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 70546 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $830. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, which is a government subsidy program designed to help low-income families afford housing. It's important to note that this is not the amount you will receive as rent; rather, it's the benchmark used by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to determine eligibility and payment standards.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in ZIP 70546, based on Census ACS data, is $926. This indicates that the FMR is slightly below the market rate, suggesting that landlords participating in Section 8 might receive less than what they could get from non-subsidized tenants. However, the stability of rent payments and the government's backing can offset this difference.
The demand for rental properties in ZIP 70546 is substantial, with 29.6% of residents being renters. This high percentage signals a robust market for rental units, particularly those that cater to lower-income families who would benefit from the Section 8 program. Given this demand, it's likely that your property will be occupied, reducing the risk of vacancy.
In terms of investment, the median home value in ZIP 70546 is approximately $135,036. This figure can serve as a guide for potential acquisition costs if you're looking to purchase a property for your first Section 8 rental. While this is the median value, actual costs can vary depending on the condition and location of the property.
Before making a final decision to participate in the Section 8 program, it's crucial to verify that your property meets the required standards for habitability and safety. HUD sets strict guidelines to ensure that all subsidized housing is fit for living, and failing to meet these standards can result in penalties or removal from the program.
Participating in Section 8 can provide a steady stream of income and a reliable tenant base, but it requires adherence to federal regulations and a willingness to accept a set rent limit. For ZIP 70546, the $830 FMR provides a clear guideline for pricing your rental unit under the program. The local average rent of $926 shows that while you may not capture the highest market rates, the program offers a stable alternative. With nearly 30% of the population renting, there is a strong demand for affordable housing, making it a viable option for your investment portfolio.
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.