Location: Prairie County, AR | Metro: Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,441 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,563 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,460 | $206,349 | 0.71% | D |
| 4BR | $1,740 | $236,795 | 0.73% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 72176 stands out within its county due to several key characteristics. With a population of 8,678 residents, it has a rental rate of 28.2%, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties. The median income in this area is $68,840, which is relatively stable and suggests that residents have a decent financial standing. However, the median home value of $210,238 indicates a higher cost of living compared to some other areas, potentially affecting affordability.
Moving to the specifics of Section 8 housing, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 72176 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,070. This figure is notably lower than the market rent, known as the ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index), which is $1,273. Landlords can expect to receive the FMR amount from the government for tenants using vouchers, while the difference between the FMR and ZORI represents the potential gap they might need to cover if the tenant's voucher does not fully meet the market rent.
The data signature of ZIP 72176 reads as stable. The median income supports a steady flow of potential voucher holders who can afford the remaining portion of the market rent beyond their voucher amount. Given the modest rental rate and reasonable income levels, landlords and small-portfolio investors should find this ZIP code a reliable market for Section 8 properties. The gap between the FMR and market rent suggests opportunities for landlords to balance their investment with the realities of local rental prices, making ZIP 72176 a viable option for those interested in Section 8 housing.
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.