Location: Catahoula Parish, LA | Metro: Catahoula Parish, LA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $680 |
| 1 Bedroom | $740 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 71401, located in Catahoula Parish, Louisiana, can be an effective addition to a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This area serves primarily as a cash-flow anchor. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $840, which is the base figure used for determining rental assistance payments under the Section 8 program.
The lack of specific market data such as median home values and current market rents suggests that ZIP 71401 is less developed and has limited housing stock compared to urban areas. However, the predictability of the FMR makes it advantageous for landlords seeking stable cash flow. By anchoring a portion of your portfolio in ZIP 71401, you ensure a consistent income stream with minimal risk of vacancy given the demand for affordable housing in rural areas.
The absence of data on appreciation plays indicates that there is little historical evidence of rapid price increases or short days on market (DOM), suggesting that the potential for capital gains is limited. Instead, the focus should be on the steady income provided by the Section 8 program. With a renter share of 0.0%, it implies that the majority of residents in ZIP 71401 do not rely on rental assistance, but those who do can significantly impact the local rental market due to the high demand for subsidized housing.
In summary, ZIP 71401 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Landlords can rely on the guaranteed $840 FMR payment, ensuring a predictable and stable income source. This ZIP code offers security in terms of occupancy and financial returns, making it a valuable component of any diversified investment portfolio focused on Section 8 properties.
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.