Location: Pike County, AR | Metro: Hempstead 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 | $650 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,110 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,473 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,782 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,871 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,110 | $198,445 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 71852, located within the Pike County, AR metro area, presents a unique set of characteristics when compared to typical ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 71852 stands at $880 for fiscal year 2026, which is notably higher than the market rent of $688. This suggests that the federally determined rent levels are above what the local market typically charges, indicating a potential subsidy advantage for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The median home value in ZIP 71852 is $179,383, which is a key figure to consider for both landlords and small-portfolio investors. If this figure is below the average home value in other ZIP codes within Pike County, it could indicate a value pocket where property acquisition costs are lower, potentially offering higher profit margins for rental properties.
The renter share in ZIP 71852 is 28.2%, which is a significant portion of the population. High renter shares can be indicative of areas where demand for rental properties is strong. However, the combination of a relatively high FMR and a below-metro average home value suggests that this ZIP code might be particularly attractive for Section 8 participants. Landlords here could benefit from a steady stream of renters through the Section 8 program, given the federal rent assistance is higher than the local market rates.
In summary, ZIP 71852 appears to be a value pocket within the Pike County, AR metro area. The below-average home value combined with a high FMR and substantial renter share makes it an appealing location for those interested in the Section 8 housing program. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should find opportunities to acquire properties at lower costs while benefiting from higher subsidies, leading to a favorable financial situation.
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.