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 | $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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $127,178 | 0.86% | C |
| 3BR | $1,360 | $215,308 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $1,750 | $264,931 | 0.66% | D |
| 5BR | $2,030 | $318,587 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP 70815, located in Baton Rouge, LA, reveals a dynamic housing landscape that is currently balanced but leaning towards a slight surplus of supply over demand. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,200 for fiscal year 2024, while the actual market rent, measured by Zillow's ZORI index, stands at $1,141. This indicates that rental prices are slightly below the benchmark set by the government, suggesting a competitive market where landlords may be adjusting their rates to attract tenants.
A 0.3% price-cut share shows that only a small fraction of listings are being discounted, which could imply that most properties are selling at or near their asking price. However, the days on market (DOM) figure of 47 days suggests a moderate pace of sales, neither too quick nor too slow, indicating a steady but not overheated market. The median home value in the area is $221,452, which provides a solid reference point for property valuation and investment potential.
The 36.2% renter share highlights a significant portion of the population that relies on rental housing, which can exert long-term pressure on the housing market. With a substantial number of residents choosing to rent rather than buy, it signals a sustained demand for rental properties. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of this trend, as it suggests a reliable base of renters who will continue to seek affordable housing options.
In summary, the market in ZIP 70815 is characterized by a slight oversupply of rental units, with rents below the FMR. The relatively low price-cut share and moderate DOM indicate a stable but not rapidly growing market. The high renter share points to ongoing demand for rental properties, making it a viable option for those looking to invest in the rental sector. These dynamics suggest a market in flux, where strategic pricing and understanding tenant needs can lead to successful 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.