Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 71457 - 2027

Location: Winn Parish, LA | Metro: Natchitoches Parish, LA

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size Monthly FMR
Studio$700
1 Bedroom$800
2 Bedrooms$1,000
3 Bedrooms$1,310
4 Bedrooms$1,670
5 Bedrooms$1,937
6 Bedrooms$2,169
7 Bedrooms$2,343
8 Bedrooms$2,460

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population
24,370
Median Household Income
$46,668
Housing Units
12,078
Renter Percentage
43.8%
Occupancy Rate
82.4%
Renter Occupied
4,357
Based on the available data, ZIP 71457, located in Winn Parish, LA, can be categorized as a **cash-flow anchor** within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The median home value in this ZIP code is $194,200, which is slightly below the national average but significantly higher than the surrounding areas. This positioning makes it a stable investment for generating consistent rental income.

The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $980, while the market rent in ZIP 71457 is $820. This creates a spread of $160, indicating that properties here are undervalued relative to the FMR. Landlords participating in the Section 8 program can benefit from this discrepancy, securing a steady stream of government-subsidized rent payments that exceed local market rates.

The undervaluation of market rents against FMRs suggests that ZIP 71457 is not an area where property values are expected to rise dramatically in the short term. Instead, it offers a reliable base for cash flow, making it suitable for investors seeking stability over rapid appreciation.

ZIP 71457's median income of $46,668 supports the idea of it being a cash-flow anchor. With a substantial portion of residents relying on government assistance for housing, there is a consistent demand for affordable rentals. The 43.8% renter share further reinforces this point, as it indicates a significant number of individuals and families who are likely to qualify for the Section 8 program.

To summarize, ZIP 71457 should be considered as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy due to its undervalued market rents relative to the FMR, a high proportion of renters, and a median income level that aligns well with the needs of the Section 8 program participants. This ZIP code provides a solid foundation for predictable and reliable rental income, which is crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors aiming to build a sustainable investment portfolio.

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.