Location: Baton Rouge, 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 | $1,180 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,210 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,200 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,552 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,087 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,241 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,750 | $312,623 | 0.56% | F |
| 4BR | $2,200 | $419,443 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 70734 stands at $128,975, which provides a solid financial cushion for most households. At a market rate of $850 per month (as reported by the Census ACS), renting is quite affordable for the average resident. However, when comparing this to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard of $1530 set for voucher payments in fiscal year 2024, it becomes evident that there is a significant affordability gap.
Given that only 18.6% of the 9,213 residents are renters, competition among landlords is relatively low. This means that those who do rent are likely to be more selective, often opting for the best deals available. The disparity between the market rent ($850) and the voucher payment ($1530) suggests that landlords could potentially see a higher return on investment by accepting Section 8 vouchers.
To summarize, landlords in ZIP 70734 should consider the following strategy: accepting Section 8 vouchers can provide a more stable and lucrative income stream compared to relying solely on market-rate rents. The higher payment through vouchers ensures that landlords receive a fair compensation reflective of the actual housing costs in the area, rather than the lower market rates that many renters are willing to pay.
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.