Location: Alexandria, LA | Metro: Alexandria, LA MSA
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 | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $740 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,601 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,936 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,033 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,240 | $241,839 | 0.51% | F |
| 4BR | $1,380 | $362,378 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 71409, located within the Alexandria, LA MSA, presents a unique profile compared to other ZIP codes in the area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 71409 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $970, which is higher than the market rent of $837. This suggests that properties in this ZIP might be slightly overpriced relative to what tenants are willing to pay on the open market.
The median home value in ZIP 71409 is $180,234, indicating it is neither a low-value nor a particularly high-value neighborhood within the MSA. Typically, homes in Alexandria, LA MSA have a range of values, but this figure places 71409 squarely in the middle tier. It is not considered a premium sub-market, nor is it a value pocket where home values are significantly lower than the metro average.
A notable feature of ZIP 71409 is its relatively high renter share of 22.1%. While this percentage is above average for many areas, it does not necessarily indicate a strong presence of Section 8 tenants unless paired with lower-than-average home values. In this case, the home value is consistent with the broader MSA, suggesting that while there is a significant number of renters, it doesn't signal a particularly attractive location for Section 8 properties.
To determine if 71409 is a sweet spot for Section 8 investments, we must consider the relationship between renter share and home values. Although the renter share is high, the home values do not suggest a lower-income neighborhood. Therefore, 71409 appears to be a standard mid-tier neighborhood within the Alexandria, LA MSA, with no significant indication of being a value pocket or a premium sub-market for Section 8 investments.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.