Location: Rusk County, TX | Metro: Longview, 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 | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,450 | $273,855 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP 75603 presents a nuanced picture for both landlords and small-portfolio investors. With a median home value of $239,613, the area exhibits a stable pricing environment. The fact that only 0.1% of listings have been reduced signals strong seller's pricing power, suggesting that homes are likely to maintain their value or even appreciate slightly over the next 12-24 months.
The median days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A indicates either a very active market where homes sell quickly, or an issue with the data. In either case, quick sales are typically indicative of a robust demand, further supporting the notion of stable to rising home values.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 75603 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1050, while the current market rent is estimated at $697 according to Census ACS data. This significant gap between FMR and actual market rents suggests potential for upward pressure on rental rates, aligning with the overall positive trend in home values.
For long-term investors, the setup implies a realistic appreciation thesis. As the area maintains its median home value and sees little reduction in listing prices, it is reasonable to expect that the intrinsic value of properties will continue to grow, albeit modestly. The rental market, showing a substantial disparity between FMR and current rates, points towards a future where rents could rise to meet federal standards, thereby enhancing the income potential of rental properties.
In summary, the data for ZIP 75603 supports a scenario where property values and rental incomes are likely to increase, driven by strong seller's pricing power and a rental market poised for growth. Landlords and investors should prepare for these trends by maintaining high-quality properties and considering adjustments to rental pricing to reflect the improving market conditions.
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.