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 | $680 |
| 1 Bedroom | $710 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,612 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,805 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,046 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,250 | $278,105 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $1,390 | $417,701 | 0.33% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 71485 presents a dynamic rental market that is currently experiencing a balance between supply and demand, but leans slightly towards demand outpacing supply. This inference is drawn from the comparison between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for ZIP 71485 is set at $1120 for fiscal year 2024, whereas the Census ACS reports the market rent at $835. This indicates that landlords are likely able to command rents below the FMR threshold, suggesting that there is sufficient demand to fill units without significant price concessions.
The median home value of $314,694 in ZIP 71485 provides insight into the overall cost of living and the potential for homeownership. However, with a 23.6% renter share, it's clear that a substantial portion of the population prefers or requires renting over buying. This high percentage of renters can be indicative of long-term housing pressures, such as affordability issues or transient populations, which make renting a more attractive option. It also suggests that there could be a persistent demand for rental properties, as many residents may not have the financial means or desire to purchase homes.
The absence of specific data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) does not provide a complete picture of the rental market's liquidity, but given the gap between FMR and market rent, it's reasonable to assume that landlords are not frequently needing to lower their asking prices or wait extended periods to find tenants. This supports the notion that demand is robust enough to support current rental rates without significant adjustments.
In summary, ZIP 71485 is a market where the demand for rental properties is strong, supported by the gap between FMR and market rent. The high renter share points to ongoing housing pressures, favoring a rental environment that is likely to sustain current conditions. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code represents an area with steady demand and the potential to maintain rental incomes close to, but still below, the FMR benchmark.
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.