Location: Stanton County, NE | Metro: Madison 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,926 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,447 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $159,228 | 0.68% | D |
| 3BR | $1,400 | $217,332 | 0.64% | D |
| 4BR | $1,660 | $252,549 | 0.66% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 68748, located in Madison, Nebraska, falls within the Stanton County, NE metro area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for this ZIP is set at $970 for fiscal year 2026, which closely aligns with the market rent figure of $962. This indicates that the rental pricing in ZIP 68748 is in line with what the market dictates, suggesting a balanced neighborhood where rental rates reflect actual demand.
The median home value in ZIP 68748 is $214,253, which is slightly above the average for the Stanton County, NE metro. This suggests that while it's not the most expensive area, it does offer a higher-end housing option compared to some other ZIP codes in the county. However, the 22.4% renter share is indicative of a significant portion of the population renting rather than owning their homes. This percentage is notable, especially when considering the home value, which might imply that there is a substantial demand for rental properties in this ZIP code.
To determine whether ZIP 68748 is a value pocket, a mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market within its metro, we can look at the relationship between its FMR, market rent, and home value. With an FMR nearly identical to the market rent and a home value that is somewhat above average, ZIP 68748 appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood. It offers a balance between affordable rental options and relatively accessible homeownership opportunities.
An interesting observation is the high renter share combined with home values that are not significantly above the metro average. This combination often points to a sweet spot for Section 8 landlords and small-portfolio investors, as it suggests that there is both a strong rental market and potential for subsidized housing support. Landlords in ZIP 68748 can benefit from the robust rental demand without having to deal with the higher costs associated with premium sub-markets.
In summary, ZIP 68748 in Madison, NE, represents a mid-tier neighborhood within the Stanton County, NE metro. Its rental rates match the fair market standards, and while home values are above average, they are still within reach for many residents. The significant renter share makes it particularly attractive for those interested in Section 8 housing opportunities.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.