Location: Ouachita County, AR | Metro: Ouachita County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $650 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of the Section 8 real estate market in ZIP 71751 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $940, while the market rent, based on Census ACS data, stands at $813. This creates a $127 difference, representing approximately a 15.6% gap between the two figures.
In ZIP 71751, where the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers. Voucher tenants provide a reliable source of income, as their rent is subsidized by the government. This makes it a yield play, ensuring steady cash flow even if the rent is slightly above the market rate. However, the gap also highlights the potential for landlords to earn slightly more than the typical market rent, making the acceptance of vouchers a strategic decision that can enhance investment returns.
The ZIP code context shows that only 8.8% of housing units are renter-occupied, which is lower than the national average. Additionally, the median household income in ZIP 71751 is $67,813 per year, indicating a modest economic environment. Despite this, the FMR being higher suggests that the government recognizes the need to support affordable housing in the area, making Section 8 vouchers particularly valuable for landlords willing to participate.
To summarize, the gap between FMR and market rent in ZIP 71751 presents an opportunity for landlords to secure a consistent income stream through voucher tenants, while also potentially earning a slight premium over the open-market rates. This makes the area attractive for those looking to invest in a stable, government-supported rental market.
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.