Location: Thayer County, NE | Metro: Jefferson County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,589 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,922 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
15.4% of residents in ZIP 68429 are renters, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties in the area. This figure aligns with the $960 Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for the metro area for fiscal year 2026, which represents the maximum amount landlords can charge for a two-bedroom apartment under the Section 8 program. Landlords should note that the median income in ZIP 68429 stands at $43,611, suggesting that the local economy supports a middle-income demographic. Although the specific market rent and median home value data are not available, the FMR provides a reliable benchmark for pricing rental units competitively while ensuring compliance with HUD guidelines.
The absence of detailed data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares does not necessarily indicate poor performance but rather a lack of transparency or reporting in these metrics. However, with a solid 15.4% renter share, landlords can expect steady occupancy rates if they position their properties correctly within the $960 FMR limit. Given the economic conditions reflected by the median income, it's reasonable to assume that there is a significant portion of the population eligible for the Section 8 program, which could translate into a reliable tenant pool.
To maximize returns, landlords should focus on maintaining properties at or below the $960 FMR for a two-bedroom unit, while also ensuring they meet the quality standards required by the Section 8 program. This approach will help attract tenants who can benefit from the subsidy, leading to a stable cash flow and reduced vacancy periods. The limited availability of other market data suggests an opportunity to gather more granular insights through local real estate associations or direct market research.
Overall, ZIP 68429 presents a viable opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to enter the Section 8 market, with a clear demand for affordable housing and a defined FMR guideline to follow. The median income level supports a sustainable tenant base, making it a prudent choice for those seeking long-term investment stability.
Section 8 Verdict: Suitable for investment, given the moderate renter share and defined FMR.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.