Location: Pope County, AR | Metro: Johnson County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $650 |
| 1 Bedroom | $690 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 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)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 72846, located in the AR metro area of Pope County, reveals a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro scope, set at $890 for fiscal year 2026, significantly exceeds the average market rent of $654 based on Census ACS data. This discrepancy allows voucher tenants to cashflow positively at the FMR rate, ensuring steady and reliable income for property owners.
To further contextualize this market, consider the median home value in ZIP 72846, which stands at $197,577. This figure yields a rent-to-price ratio of approximately 0.33%, indicating that rental properties are undervalued relative to their purchase price. For investors, this suggests strong potential for appreciation, as the area's housing values could rise to better align with current rental rates.
The dynamics between renting and buying in this market are also noteworthy. With a median Days on Market (DOM) of N/A and a price-cut share of 0.2%, it's evident that the local real estate market is stable and competitive. These metrics imply that homes are selling quickly without significant price reductions, supporting the notion that the area is experiencing a balanced market condition.
In conclusion, the strongest investor angle in ZIP 72846 is cashflow. Landlords can expect positive cashflow from voucher tenants due to the substantial difference between HUD FMR and market rent, making this location an attractive investment opportunity for those seeking consistent financial returns.
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.