Location: Thomas County, NE | Metro: Cherry County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,612 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,805 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,046 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 69161 in Thomas County, NE, reveals critical insights for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $960 per month for the fiscal year 2026, covering the broader metro scope. However, due to the lack of specific market rent data for ZIP 69161, direct comparisons are challenging.
Despite the absence of precise market rent figures, it's evident that voucher tenants will cashflow at the FMR rate. This means landlords can expect positive cash flow when renting units to tenants with vouchers, assuming typical operating costs and vacancy rates. The scenario is further reinforced by the lack of median home value data, which suggests that rental properties are likely more prevalent than owner-occupied homes in this area, thereby supporting a robust rental market.
The rent-to-price ratio cannot be accurately derived without the median home value, but the presence of a strong rental market implies that the ratio is favorable for investors looking to capitalize on the demand for affordable housing. In terms of days on market (DOM) and price-cut share, both metrics are unavailable, indicating a potentially stable local real estate market where neither rentals nor sales experience significant fluctuations or prolonged listing periods.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 69161 is cashflow. Given the HUD FMR and the implied strength of the rental market, landlords can secure steady income streams from voucher tenants without the need for premium units. This makes the area particularly attractive for those seeking reliable returns through rental income rather than betting on property appreciation or market volatility.
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.