Location: Avoyelles Parish, LA | Metro: Avoyelles Parish, LA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $620 |
| 1 Bedroom | $710 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $890 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 71355 stands at $50,417, which places significant constraints on households when it comes to affording the market rate rent of $719 per month, according to the latest Census ACS data. This means that even at the median income level, residents would struggle to meet the market rent, especially considering other living expenses.
Comparatively, the voucher payment standard based on the Fair Market Rent (FMR) is set at $830 for metro areas in fiscal year 2026. This higher amount could be more attractive to landlords, as it aligns closer to the actual market rate and provides a more stable source of income given the government backing.
With 27.4% of the 1,706 population being renters, the affordability gap is evident. The discrepancy between the median income and the market rent suggests that many potential tenants might find it difficult to pay without assistance. This situation could lead to increased competition among landlords who accept vouchers, as these units become more sought after by tenants facing financial challenges.
For landlords considering their strategy regarding voucher versus cash-pay tenants, the key takeaway is that accepting vouchers could provide a steady stream of income comparable to market rates, while also attracting a larger pool of potential renters. Given the affordability issues in ZIP 71355, those who can offer both options might have an edge in the local rental market.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.