Location: Jackson Parish, LA | Metro: Bienville Parish, LA
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 | $640 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $890 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,531 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,715 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,852 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,945 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,240 | $143,127 | 0.87% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 71251, located within the Jackson Parish, LA metro area, presents an interesting mix of metrics when compared to typical ZIP codes in the region. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 71251 is set at $830 for fiscal year 2026, which aligns closely with the metro average. However, the actual market rent is lower, standing at $751, indicating that landlords in this ZIP could potentially offer slightly discounted rents while still meeting or exceeding the FMR requirements.
The median home value in ZIP 71251 is $86,189, significantly below the typical home values in the Jackson Parish, LA metro area. This suggests that the area may be more affordable for first-time homeowners or those looking for investment properties at a lower price point. With a renter share of 39.4%, it is higher than the national average but reflective of a local trend where renting is a prominent housing choice.
The combination of a below-average home value and a relatively high renter share points towards ZIP 71251 being a potential value pocket within the metro. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this ZIP as it offers opportunities for acquiring properties at a lower cost while still having a substantial number of potential tenants who might prefer renting over purchasing due to the area's affordability.
To further analyze the attractiveness of ZIP 71251 for Section 8 investments, let’s look at the divergence between the FMR and market rent. At $830, the FMR is higher than the market rent of $751, suggesting that properties in this ZIP can be rented out at rates that exceed the current market conditions. This scenario is particularly advantageous for landlords participating in the Section 8 program as it allows them to receive higher rental payments without setting their rents above the local market rate.
In conclusion, ZIP 71251 appears to be a value pocket within the Jackson Parish, LA metro area, offering both affordable property acquisition and a strong tenant base, making it a strategic location for real estate investments under the Section 8 program.
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.