Location: Dodge County, NE | Metro: Dodge County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 68664 stands at $87,917, which provides a solid foundation for understanding the rental market dynamics in this area. At the market rate of $933 per month (as reported by the Census ACS), renting becomes a significant expense for many households. To put this into perspective, a household earning the median income would spend approximately 13% of their monthly income on rent alone, assuming a 12-month distribution of their annual earnings.
However, when comparing the market rate to the Federal Market Rent (FMR) standard of $1,100 for the fiscal year 2026, it's evident that the actual market rate is below the voucher payment level. This means that landlords who accept vouchers could potentially receive higher payments than the typical market rate, making voucher tenants an attractive option.
In ZIP 68664, only 19.7% of the 293 residents are renters, indicating a relatively small pool of potential tenants. This low percentage of renters suggests that competition among landlords could be fierce, especially for those who cater to the limited number of cash-paying tenants. The affordability gap between the median income and both the market rate and FMR highlights the financial strain many renters face, which could further intensify competition for affordable units.
For landlords considering whether to accept vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants, the data points towards a strategic advantage in accepting vouchers. Given the higher payment standard compared to the market rate, landlords can secure steady rental income while also serving a segment of the population that might otherwise struggle to find affordable housing. This strategy not only ensures a reliable tenant but also positions landlords to benefit from the government subsidy, effectively bridging the affordability gap in the local rental market.
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.