Location: White County, AR | Metro: Independence County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 72568 stands out in its county with a population of 2,110 residents, where 27.8% are renters. The median income here is $67,143, and the median home value is $170,806, indicating a middle-class community that leans towards homeownership. However, the rental market shows potential for Section 8 housing, with the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 set at $1,040 per month for metropolitan areas. This contrasts sharply with the current market rent of $821, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS).
The disparity between the FMR and the actual market rent presents an opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. Landlords can increase their rental income by participating in the Section 8 program, which covers the difference between the tenant's contribution and the FMR. Given the median income, tenants in ZIP 72568 would likely contribute around 30% of their income toward rent, making the Section 8 subsidy particularly attractive.
Despite the economic potential, the data signature of ZIP 72568 reads as stable rather than transitional. The relatively high median home value suggests a mature housing market, while the modest percentage of renters indicates a preference for homeownership among residents. This stability implies that landlords and investors should expect steady demand for rental properties that meet Section 8 requirements, without the volatility associated with rapidly changing demographics.
To summarize, ZIP 72568 offers a niche but lucrative opportunity for those interested in Section 8 housing due to the favorable gap between FMR and market rents. The area's demographic and economic indicators suggest a stable environment for long-term investment in the rental market.
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.