Location: Pottawatomie County, OK | Metro: Oklahoma City, OK HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $700 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,220 | $243,327 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 74852 stands at $59,821, which places significant constraints on the financial capabilities of households when it comes to housing costs. The market rate for rent, according to the Census ACS, is $782 per month. This figure represents a substantial portion of the average household's budget, making it challenging for residents to find affordable housing without assistance.
In comparison, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD for ZIP code 74852 in fiscal year 2024 is $1000. This higher standard reflects the government's acknowledgment that the actual cost of renting in the area exceeds what many households can afford based on their income levels. The difference between the market rate ($782) and the FMR ($1000) highlights a notable affordability gap for renters.
The ZIP code has a relatively low percentage of renters at 18.2%, with a total population of 1,598. This suggests that there might be fewer potential tenants looking for rental properties, which could intensify competition among landlords for the available pool of renters. Given the affordability challenges, landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers will likely have an advantage in attracting tenants over those who do not.
For landlords considering their strategy, the takeaway is clear. Accepting Section 8 vouchers can provide a competitive edge in a market where many renters struggle to meet the monthly rent. While vouchers are tied to the $1000 FMR, they offer a guaranteed and timely rent payment, reducing the risk of vacancy and non-payment. However, landlords should also weigh the benefits of accepting cash-paying tenants who might pay slightly above the market rate but below the FMR, potentially offering a higher return on investment.
Ultimately, landlords must balance the security of voucher payments with the potential for higher cash rents. Understanding the local tenant demographics and their financial situations is crucial for making informed decisions about rental strategies.
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.