Location: Howard County, NE | Metro: Howard County, NE HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $197,655 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $1,260 | $263,667 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $1,700 | $315,658 | 0.54% | F |
| 5BR | $1,972 | $389,201 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 68873 in Howard County, Nebraska, stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a total population of 3,785 residents, 23.3% of whom rent their homes, the area has a median household income of $75,000 and a median home value of $252,415. These figures suggest a relatively stable community where homeownership is more prevalent than renting.
The voucher economics in ZIP 68873 are particularly interesting. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $870, which is significantly higher than the $716 average market rent reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). This discrepancy means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive higher rental payments compared to the local market rate, making it a potentially attractive option for property owners looking to secure steady tenants with guaranteed income.
Based on the data signature, ZIP 68873 appears to be a stable community. The high median home value indicates a strong investment in property, while the relatively low percentage of renters suggests that homeownership is a significant factor in the local economy. The disparity between the FMR and the market rent also points towards stability, as the higher subsidy levels can help maintain consistent occupancy rates and rental income for landlords.
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.