Location: Ouachita County, AR | Metro: Calhoun County, AR
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 | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,200 | $166,412 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $1,290 | $231,117 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 71701 stands at $49,110, which places significant constraints on households' ability to afford the market rate rent of $794. While the market rate is already challenging for many residents, it's important to note that the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $900. This indicates a substantial affordability gap, where even the government's subsidy level exceeds what most local households can comfortably pay.
In ZIP 71701, with a population of 16,847 and 31.7% of residents being renters, the competition among landlords is likely to be fierce. The disparity between the median income and both the market rate and FMR suggests that many renters will struggle to find housing without financial assistance. For landlords, this means that relying solely on market-rate rents could limit their pool of potential tenants, especially given the economic realities faced by the majority of residents.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear: accepting vouchers can provide a stable source of income while also tapping into a broader tenant base. Given the economic landscape, the $900 FMR represents a more realistic expectation for rental income than the $794 market rate, as it is designed to cover the cost of housing in the area. Landlords who are flexible and willing to work with voucher programs may find themselves with a more consistent occupancy rate and a competitive edge over those who do not.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.