Location: Harlan County, NE | Metro: Harlan 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 | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,410 | $182,402 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 housing analysis for ZIP code 68920 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $980 and the actual market rent reported at $645 according to the Census ACS data for the fiscal year 2026. This gap amounts to $335, representing approximately a 52% difference between the two figures.
Given that the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords and small-portfolio investors can leverage this situation to maximize their yields. The higher FMR means that voucher holders can afford to pay up to $980 for housing, which is notably above the prevailing market rate. This allows property owners to secure rental incomes that are significantly higher than what they might receive from non-voucher tenants paying the market rate of $645.
In the context of ZIP 68920, where only 15.5% of residents are renters and the median home value stands at $196,015, the appeal of Section 8 vouchers becomes even clearer. With a median income of $80,938, many local residents may find it challenging to enter the homeownership market, making them prime candidates for rental properties. However, the relatively low percentage of renters suggests a competitive landscape for attracting tenants.
The cost of housing voucher tenants below open-market rates is minimal when compared to the potential benefits. Landlords can avoid the risk of vacancies and ensure a steady stream of income, backed by the federal government, which guarantees timely payments. Furthermore, the financial support from Section 8 vouchers helps maintain occupancy levels and provides a reliable source of revenue, especially in areas where rental demand is lower due to high homeownership rates.
To summarize, the substantial gap between the FMR and the market rent in ZIP 68920 makes it an attractive opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to enhance their rental yields. The higher payment threshold for voucher tenants compensates for the lower overall rental demand, ensuring a stable and potentially lucrative investment strategy.
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.