Location: Hempstead County, AR | Metro: Hempstead County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $670 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,485 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,663 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,796 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,886 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 71855 is situated in a rural area of Louisiana, characterized by a small population of just 352 residents. With 34.5% of the residents being renters, it indicates a modest demand for rental properties. However, the lack of data on median income and median home value suggests that the area might be less developed or underreported, which could affect the overall economic dynamics.
Moving into the specifics of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $890. This figure is crucial for landlords and investors considering Section 8 properties, as it represents the maximum amount that can be charged for a rental unit. Unfortunately, there is no available data on the current market rent, which makes it challenging to assess how competitive the FMR is relative to what tenants might be willing to pay.
Given the limited data, it's clear that ZIP 71855 would likely appeal more to hands-off voucher operators rather than hands-on value-add buyers. The small population size and the percentage of renters suggest a stable but low-demand environment. For those interested in maximizing their time and minimizing property management efforts, this area offers a straightforward opportunity to manage a few units without the complexity of higher density markets. However, for investors looking to actively improve and add value to their properties through renovations or other enhancements, the lack of detailed economic indicators poses significant challenges in assessing potential returns on investment.
In summary, ZIP 71855 presents itself as a niche market for hands-off Section 8 operators who are comfortable with smaller portfolios and less volatile rental environments. The FMR of $890 provides a clear guideline for rental pricing, making it easier to manage expectations and operations without the need for extensive local market research.
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.