Location: Thurston County, NE | Metro: Cuming County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 68055 presents a unique opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 tenants. With a population of 315 residents, 16.8% of whom are renters, this area is not predominantly renter-heavy. However, the presence of renters suggests a notable demand for rental housing.
The median household income in ZIP 68055 stands at $62,292, which provides a baseline for assessing the financial capacity of potential tenants. The market rent of $738 is a critical figure when considering the affordability of housing for those who rely on Section 8 vouchers. This market rent represents approximately 13.9% of the median household income, calculated by dividing the monthly rent by the annual income and multiplying by 12. This percentage indicates that typical rent consumes a significant but manageable portion of the local income.
Comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,000, which is set for FY 2026 in the metro area, reveals that the market rent in ZIP 68055 is below the FMR. This means that landlords can potentially receive higher rent payments through Section 8 vouchers, as the vouchers are designed to cover up to the FMR level, subject to certain conditions and limitations.
In this ZIP code, landlords should anticipate a tenant profile that includes individuals and families who are financially constrained but still capable of contributing a substantial portion of their income towards rent. These tenants will likely be seeking affordable housing options and may benefit from the additional support provided by Section 8 vouchers. Given the lower market rent compared to the FMR, landlords have an opportunity to offer competitive rates while still receiving subsidized payments that exceed the current market rate.
To summarize, ZIP 68055 is a niche market for Section 8 tenants, with a moderate renter population and income levels that make it feasible for many to participate in the program. Landlords can expect to serve tenants who are committed to paying their share of the rent, which is a significant 13.9% of the median household income, while the voucher system helps bridge the gap to reach the FMR of $1,000.
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.