Location: Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR | Metro: Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR MSA
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 | $1,060 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,230 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,830 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,170 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,424 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,595 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,460 | $250,210 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $2,020 | $353,774 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,440 | $480,879 | 0.51% | F |
| 5BR | $2,830 | $573,054 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 72714, Bella Vista, Arkansas, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,320. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, which is a government-subsidized housing assistance program. It's important to note that this is not the rent you would charge your tenant; it is the payment standard used by the Housing Choice Voucher program.
In comparison, the typical market rent in this area is $1,967, according to the Zillow Rent Index (ZORI). This means that if you participate in the Section 8 program, you will be charging significantly less than the average rent for the area. However, the lower rent is offset by the guarantee of timely payments from the government, which reduces the risk of non-payment.
The renter share in this ZIP code is 13.2%, indicating a strong demand for affordable housing. This percentage reflects the proportion of renters who could potentially benefit from the Section 8 program, showing that there are many people looking for subsidized housing options. The high demand suggests that your property is likely to remain occupied, reducing the risk of vacancy.
If you're considering purchasing a property for a Section 8 rental, the median home value in ZIP 72714 is $354,318. This figure gives you an idea of the acquisition cost for a typical home in the area. While the FMR might seem low compared to the market rent, the steady income from the Section 8 program can make up for the difference over time.
Before making a final decision, ensure that the property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) required by the Section 8 program. These standards are designed to ensure that the homes are safe and in good condition. Passing the HQS inspection is crucial because it determines whether your property is eligible for the program.
Participating in the Section 8 program can be a viable option for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to enter the Bella Vista market. Despite the lower rent, the guaranteed payments and high demand for affordable housing can provide a stable source of income.
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.