Location: Jefferson County, NE | Metro: Gage County, NE
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,844 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,342 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $780 | $78,712 | 0.99% | C |
| 2BR | $1,010 | $142,318 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $1,210 | $204,749 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $248,018 | 0.64% | D |
| 5BR | $1,844 | $288,629 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 68310, located in Beatrice, Nebraska, presents an interesting landscape for both renters and landlords. The median income for households in this area stands at $60,928, which provides a baseline for understanding the financial capabilities of local residents. However, when we look at the market rate for rent, measured by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), at $1,063 per month, it becomes evident that there is a significant affordability challenge for many families.
To put this into context, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area, set at $960 for fiscal year 2026, represents the maximum amount that housing authorities will pay landlords on behalf of their tenants through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. This means that landlords who choose to accept Section 8 vouchers will receive a lower monthly payment compared to the market rate. The difference between the ZORI and FMR amounts to $103 per month, highlighting the immediate financial impact of opting for voucher payments over cash-paying tenants.
In ZIP 68310, where 31.7% of the 14,093 population are renters, the affordability gap suggests that there could be increased competition among landlords for cash-paying tenants who can afford the higher market rates. This competition might drive some landlords to consider accepting Section 8 vouchers as a way to fill vacancies, especially in a scenario where the demand for affordable housing exceeds the supply of renters capable of paying market rates.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: while accepting Section 8 vouchers may result in lower rental income, it could also serve as a strategic advantage in a market where a significant portion of potential tenants face affordability challenges. Landlords should carefully evaluate the balance between voucher acceptance and cash-paying tenants, considering factors such as vacancy rates, tenant stability, and long-term property management costs.
In summary, the median income and rent rates in Beatrice, NE, indicate a notable affordability gap that could influence landlord decisions regarding Section 8 vouchers. Accepting vouchers may be a viable strategy to ensure consistent occupancy and manage property turnover effectively.
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.