Location: Dallas, TX | Metro: Dallas, TX 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 | $1,440 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,480 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,780 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,225 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,612 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,901 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,096 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,480 | $109,933 | 1.35% | A |
| 2BR | $1,740 | $164,453 | 1.06% | B |
| 3BR | $2,190 | $275,303 | 0.8% | D |
| 4BR | $2,780 | $360,136 | 0.77% | D |
| 5BR | $3,225 | $512,608 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Garland’s 75043 zip code offers a strategic suburban setting characterized by mature neighborhoods and convenient retail access. This area is distinct for its proximity to major employment hubs, with the Firewheel Town Center serving as a primary economic and recreational anchor. The neighborhood features a mix of 1970s brick homes and newer developments, providing a stable residential environment that appeals to working-class families seeking affordability within the Dallas Metroplex. Recent civic improvements have focused on enhancing park spaces and maintaining the area’s reputation as a practical, family-friendly community.
From a financial perspective, the gap between subsidized and market rates presents a clear opportunity. The HUD SAFMR for a 2-bedroom unit in FY2024 is set at $1,690, significantly outpacing the current market rent of $1,404. This yields a potential premium of $286 per month for voucher-compliant units. Additionally, the median home value sits at $289,503, while median 2BR sales are much lower at $166,148, suggesting favorable entry points compared to the broader area. With properties moving off the market in a median of 58 days, demand is steady without being hyper-competitive, allowing investors time to perform due diligence.
The local tenant pool is supported by solid fundamentals, including a renter share of 37.8% and a median household income of $76,778. This income level suggests that while the area is affordable, residents have sufficient earning power for stability. Families are drawn to the area for access to the Garland Independent School District, which includes several highly-rated elementary campuses, and the abundance of local amenities surrounding Firewheel. These factors contribute to consistent rental demand, ensuring that vacancy risks remain manageable for landlords maintaining quality housing stock.
The Section 8 verdict for 75043 is heavily weighted toward immediate cash flow. The specific $286 gap between the 2BR SAFMR ($1,690) and market rent ($1,404) allows investors to secure guaranteed payments well above standard market rates. Combined with a lower median 2BR sale price of $166,148, the rent-to-value ratio is exceptionally strong. For small-portfolio investors, this zip code offers a rare chance to achieve high-yield stability backed by government subsidies in a established suburban location.
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.