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 | $1,100 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,471 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,768 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,989 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,138 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,130 | $134,993 | 0.84% | C |
| 2BR | $1,330 | $157,389 | 0.85% | C |
| 3BR | $1,670 | $201,925 | 0.83% | C |
| 4BR | $2,130 | $254,950 | 0.84% | C |
| 5BR | $2,471 | $291,030 | 0.85% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Dallas 75217, located in the southern sector of the city, is characterized as a working-class, predominantly Hispanic neighborhood with a strong industrial presence. This area hosts major logistics and manufacturing hubs, including the sprawling Dallas Logistics Hub, which serves as a significant local employer and drives economic activity in the region. The housing stock consists largely of mid-century single-family homes, offering investors opportunities to acquire properties with substantial lot sizes in a mature urban environment.
From a numerical standpoint, the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a 2-bedroom unit stands at $1,280, while the current market rent reported by Zillow reaches $1,871, creating a gap of $591 between voucher limits and market rates. The median home value is $196,378, with a more attainable median 2BR sale price of $157,176. Properties typically sit on the market for a median of 60 days. While the ZORI indicates healthy market demand, the lower SAFMR suggests standard voucher payments may not cover top-of-market gross rent without tenant contribution.
The tenant profile is defined by a renter share of 37.2% and a median household income of $55,723. Local amenities include access to major roadways like I-35 and Loop 12, facilitating commutes, though public transit options are more limited compared to the city center. Families here value proximity to local schools and parks, contributing to a stable, community-focused atmosphere rather than a transient population.
The Section 8 verdict for 75217 leans toward appreciation and stability rather than immediate high-yield cash flow. With the 2BR FMR trailing market rents by nearly $600, investors relying solely on the voucher ceiling may leave money on the table. However, the low cost of entry—exemplified by a median 2BR sale price of $157,176—positions this area for solid equity growth. Investors should view this as a buy-and-hold play where rising property values outpace the modest rent premiums guaranteed by the housing authority.
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.