Location: Monroe, LA | Metro: Morehouse Parish, 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 | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,030 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,995 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,234 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,534 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,310 | $126,483 | 1.04% | B |
| 3BR | $1,700 | $233,213 | 0.73% | D |
| 4BR | $1,720 | $333,705 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Sterlington, located in ZIP code 71280 of Ouachita Parish County, Louisiana, stands out due to its unique demographic and economic profile. With a population of 5,269 residents, the area has a rental rate of 25.2%, which is slightly above the national average. The median income in Sterlington is $78,531, and the median home value is $228,962, indicating a middle-class community that is financially stable.
The key differentiator for landlords and small-portfolio investors in Sterlington is the housing voucher economics. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the ZIP code for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,240, while the Census American Community Survey (ACS) indicates a market rent of $1,103. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive slightly higher rents through vouchers compared to the local market rates. However, it's important to note that the FMR is an estimate used to determine payment standards for housing vouchers and may not reflect actual market conditions.
Based on the available data, the economic and demographic signature of Sterlington appears to be relatively stable. The median income and home values suggest a consistent financial environment where residents can afford their housing costs. The slight difference between the FMR and market rent also points towards a balanced market condition, making it a suitable location for those interested in Section 8 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.