Location: Union County, AR | Metro: Union County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,160 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,578 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,767 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,908 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,003 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 71759, located in Union County, Arkansas, represents an opportunity for diversification within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The area has a renter share of 16.1%, which is relatively low compared to urban centers but significant enough to attract a steady stream of tenants who rely on government subsidies for housing.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $920. However, due to limited data on market rents and median home values, a precise comparison cannot be made. Nonetheless, the presence of a sizeable portion of renters who qualify for Section 8 benefits ensures a stable occupancy rate, which is crucial for long-term investment planning.
This ZIP code is not ideal for a cash-flow anchor because the lack of detailed market rent data makes it difficult to assess whether the FMR provides a substantial spread over market rates. Similarly, it does not stand out as an appreciation play given the absence of information regarding price-cut shares and days on market (DOM).
Instead, ZIP 71759 serves as a diversifier. By including properties in this area, investors can balance their portfolios with assets that offer consistent, if modest, returns. The reliance on Section 8 tenants mitigates risks associated with market fluctuations, ensuring that rental income remains predictable. This predictability is particularly valuable in a broader investment strategy where other assets might experience higher volatility.
A diversified portfolio that includes areas like ZIP 71759 can provide landlords and small-portfolio investors with a more robust and resilient investment base. While the potential for high appreciation or extremely favorable cash flows is unclear without additional market data, the stability offered by Section 8 tenants in this region makes it a solid choice for those looking to spread risk across different types of investments.
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.