Location: McCurtain County, OK | Metro: McCurtain County, OK
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 | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $950 | $71,804 | 1.32% | A |
| 3BR | $1,280 | $146,934 | 0.87% | C |
| 4BR | $1,450 | $237,059 | 0.61% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 74745, which includes Idabel, OK, stands at $47,134. Given the market rate for rent at $723 per month, it becomes evident that a significant portion of households may struggle to afford housing without financial strain. This market rate represents approximately 19.6% of the median annual income when annualized, indicating a challenging situation for renters who must allocate nearly a fifth of their income to housing.
In comparison, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is $950. This figure is notably higher than the current market rate, suggesting that there could be a substantial number of renters who qualify for housing vouchers but find the actual rental costs lower than the voucher payment standard. The gap between the $723 market rate and the $950 FMR implies that landlords might have an opportunity to increase rents closer to the voucher payment levels without deterring qualified tenants.
With 35.9% of the population being renters and a total population of 9,720, the competition among landlords for tenants is moderate. However, the affordability gap means that many potential renters might prioritize finding housing that fits within their budget constraints, even if it means settling for less desirable properties. Landlords who offer competitive rates, amenities, and locations will likely attract these tenants over those who charge closer to the FMR.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear: while voucher payments ensure a steady income at a higher rate ($950), the demand for affordable housing suggests that maintaining lower rental rates could attract a larger pool of tenants. Landlords should weigh the benefits of guaranteed payments against the potential for increased occupancy and tenant satisfaction by offering more affordable options. Additionally, understanding the local rental market and the financial capabilities of residents is crucial for making informed decisions about pricing and tenant selection.
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.