Location: Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | Metro: Fort Worth-Arlington, 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 | $1,860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,910 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,234 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,742 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,121 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,377 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,220 | $228,466 | 0.97% | C |
| 3BR | $2,910 | $303,507 | 0.96% | C |
| 4BR | $3,650 | $398,730 | 0.92% | C |
| 5BR | $4,234 | $476,567 | 0.89% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 76001, Arlington, TX, stands at $105,311. At first glance, this figure suggests a relatively high earning potential among residents. However, the market rate for rent, known as the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), is set at $2,188 per month. This represents a significant portion of the average household’s monthly budget, especially when considering other living expenses.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024, which determines the payment standard for housing vouchers, is set at $2,130 for this ZIP code. This means that the difference between the market rate and the voucher payment is minimal, at just $58 per month. For landlords, this indicates that accepting Section 8 vouchers would yield nearly the same amount as renting to tenants paying the market rate.
Arlington has a rental population of 24.3%, with a total population of 38,913. Given the tight competition among landlords and the affordability gap faced by many renters, it becomes crucial to understand how these factors influence tenant selection and satisfaction. The fact that the ZORI is so close to the FMR suggests that many renters might struggle to pay the market rate without financial assistance, leading to an increased interest in Section 8 vouchers.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: accepting Section 8 vouchers can be a strategic move to fill vacancies while maintaining competitive rental rates. In ZIP 76001, the difference between market and voucher rates is negligible, making it financially viable to participate in the Section 8 program. This approach ensures steady income and a stable tenant base, crucial for the success of any rental property in a competitive market.
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.