Location: Jackson Parish, LA | Metro: Monroe, 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,702 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,838 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,930 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,270 | $223,681 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 71238, located in Jackson Parish, Louisiana, presents an opportunity for a specific type of investment within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This area should be considered a cash-flow anchor due to the favorable spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR for ZIP 71238 is set at $960, while the current market rent stands at $935. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect a higher guaranteed rental income compared to the local market rates.
The median home value in ZIP 71238 is $185,299, which is relatively low, making it easier for landlords to acquire properties at a lower initial cost. However, the key factor in identifying this ZIP code as a cash-flow anchor is the consistent and reliable income stream provided by the Section 8 program. The FMR of $960 is a government-set rate that ensures tenants can afford their housing costs, thus reducing the risk of vacancy and default on rental payments.
While there is no specific data on price-cut share or days on market (DOM), the absence of these metrics suggests that the primary focus for investors in ZIP 71238 should be on generating steady cash flow rather than rapid appreciation. The renter share is 15.6%, indicating a moderate presence of renters in the area, and the median income is $34,018, which aligns well with the income requirements for Section 8 eligibility.
A cash-flow anchor is essential for any diversified real estate portfolio, providing a stable base upon which more speculative investments can be made. In ZIP 71238, the combination of a slightly above-market rental rate guaranteed by the Section 8 program and the low median home value makes it an attractive option for securing long-term, dependable returns. Landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to stabilize their income streams should consider including properties in this ZIP code as part of their overall strategy.
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.