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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,352 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,667 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $960 | $104,954 | 0.91% | C |
| 2BR | $1,130 | $122,430 | 0.92% | C |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $189,629 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 75210 in Dallas, TX, presents a unique challenge for renters given the local economic conditions and rental market dynamics. The median household income in this area stands at $33,712 according to the latest Census ACS data. Meanwhile, the market rate for rent is $1,033 per month. This means that a significant portion of a household's income would need to be dedicated to covering housing costs, which is not sustainable long-term.
To put this into perspective, let’s consider the federal guidelines. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 75210, set at $1,170 for fiscal year 2024, represents the maximum amount that a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) can cover. However, the actual market rate is lower at $1,033, indicating that while vouchers can pay up to $1,170, many units are priced below this threshold.
The affordability gap becomes particularly pronounced when we look at the percentage of renters in the area, which is 64.3%, and the total population of 7,722. This suggests a high demand for rental properties but with limited financial capacity among residents. Landlords will face stiff competition as they vie for tenants who can afford the market rate or are willing to accept the higher voucher payment.
For landlords considering their strategy between accepting voucher payments versus relying on cash-paying tenants, the data points to a few key considerations. While voucher payments ensure steady and timely rent collections, the higher payment standard of $1170 compared to the market rate of $1,033 could impact profitability. On the other hand, attracting cash-paying tenants might be difficult due to the low median income, potentially leading to vacancies and lost income.
The takeaway for landlords is to carefully evaluate the trade-offs between accepting Section 8 vouchers and seeking out cash-paying tenants. Given the high percentage of renters and the median income level, it is likely that voucher tenants will be more reliable in terms of occupancy rates, even if it means slightly higher rents. Landlords should also consider the potential for subsidies to bridge the affordability gap, making rental units more accessible to the local population without sacrificing financial stability.
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.