Location: Baton Rouge, LA | Metro: Baton Rouge, LA HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,200 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,230 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,587 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,129 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,285 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 70809 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1550. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers in your area, meaning that if you participate in the program, you will receive up to $1550 per month from the government to cover the rent for eligible tenants.
Note that this is not the amount you should charge as rent; it's the maximum reimbursement rate from the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The typical market rent in this area, known as the ZORI (Zillow Rental Zestimate Index), is $1345, which is below the FMR. This suggests that there is room for landlords to potentially negotiate higher rents while still remaining within the voucher limits.
Baton Rouge has a strong rental market, with 45.9% of residents being renters. This high percentage indicates a significant demand for rental properties, making it a viable option for those considering their first Section 8 rental. However, the median home value in the area is around $311,110, which reflects the potential acquisition cost for a property in ZIP 70809.
To ensure success, you must verify that the property meets all HUD (Department of Housing and Urban Development) standards before participating in the Section 8 program. This includes ensuring that the unit is safe, decent, and sanitary. A thorough inspection and any necessary repairs can prevent delays in renting out the property.
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.