Location: Monroe, 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 | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $720 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,427 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,598 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,726 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,812 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,190 | $135,505 | 0.88% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 71277, located in Monroe, LA, offers a strategic opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to balance their Section 8 portfolios. This area is best categorized as a cash-flow anchor.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 71277 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $840. While the market rent is currently not available, the median home value stands at $114,250. The FMR figure provides a reliable benchmark for rental income, ensuring steady cash flow from tenants participating in the Section 8 program.
A cash-flow anchor is essential for any diversified investment strategy, particularly when dealing with government-subsidized housing. By anchoring your portfolio in areas like ZIP 71277, where the FMR is well-defined, you can rely on consistent income streams that are less susceptible to market volatility. This predictability is crucial for managing overall portfolio performance and meeting financial obligations such as mortgage payments and maintenance costs.
Moreover, the median income in ZIP 71277 is $26,686, which aligns closely with the income eligibility criteria for Section 8 housing assistance. This indicates a high demand for subsidized rentals, further solidifying the potential for stable cash flow.
While appreciation plays and diversifiers are also important components of a balanced portfolio, ZIP 71277's primary value lies in its capacity to serve as a dependable source of income. Its characteristics make it an ideal choice for investors seeking to mitigate risk and ensure a stable revenue stream within their Section 8 holdings.
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.