Location: Randolph County, AR | Metro: Randolph County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $650 |
| 1 Bedroom | $690 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,473 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,782 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,871 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 72444, located within the Randolph County, AR metro, presents an interesting mix of economic indicators that can help landlords and small-portfolio investors make informed decisions. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 72444 is set at $880 for fiscal year 2026, which is notably higher than the market rent currently observed at $440. This discrepancy suggests a potential undervaluation in the rental market or an upcoming increase in rental prices.
The median home value in ZIP 72444 stands at $145,678, which is lower than the typical home values in other ZIP codes within Randolph County, AR. This could indicate that 72444 is a value pocket within the metro area, offering properties at a price point that is more accessible to first-time buyers and renters who might be seeking affordable housing options.
The renter share in ZIP 72444 is 17.9%, which is slightly above the national average but may vary when compared to other ZIP codes within the same county. Given the combination of a relatively high renter share and below-metro home values, ZIP 72444 could represent a sweet spot for Section 8 housing opportunities. Landlords here may benefit from the higher FMR while serving a significant portion of the rental market that relies on government subsidies.
To summarize, ZIP 72444 appears to be a value pocket within the broader Randolph County, AR metro, characterized by lower home values and a higher-than-average renter share. The gap between the FMR and the current market rent indicates potential for rental price increases, which could be particularly advantageous for investors participating in the Section 8 program. However, it's crucial to monitor local trends and policies to ensure that these conditions persist or improve over time.
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.