Location: Nuckolls County, NE | Metro: Jewell County, KS
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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,060 | $72,624 | 1.46% | A |
| 3BR | $1,360 | $140,051 | 0.97% | C |
| 4BR | $1,460 | $163,472 | 0.89% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
19.3% of residents in ZIP 68978, Superior, NE, are renters, indicating a modest demand for rental properties in the area. The $980 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 contrasts sharply with the $663 market rent observed in recent Census data, suggesting a potential gap between government-set rental standards and actual market conditions. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of these figures when setting rents or applying for Section 8 contracts.
The median home value of $97,615 in ZIP 68978 provides insight into the overall housing market's affordability and could influence investment decisions. Given the $65,764 median income, it's clear that many residents might find it challenging to afford homeownership, which could translate into a steady rental market.
While the days on market (DOM) and price-cut share data are unavailable, the discrepancy between the FMR and market rent figures is significant. This suggests that landlords who align their rental prices closer to the market rate of $663 may attract a broader tenant pool, including those who might be eligible for Section 8 assistance but are limited by the $980 FMR cap.
Investors should also consider the broader economic context. With a median income of $65,764, tenants may be more sensitive to pricing, making competitive rates essential for attracting and retaining occupants. However, the relatively low median home value indicates that the cost of entry into the rental market is manageable, which can be advantageous for both landlords and potential tenants.
In summary, ZIP 68978 presents a rental market where landlords can leverage the $663 market rent to remain competitive while still considering the $980 FMR for Section 8 eligibility. The modest 19.3% renter share suggests that there is room for growth in the rental sector, particularly for those willing to cater to the needs of lower-income households. For Section 8, the verdict is positive, given the alignment between the FMR and the income levels of local residents.
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.