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 | $1,870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,920 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,246 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,756 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,136 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,393 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,230 | $222,099 | 1% | B |
| 3BR | $2,920 | $280,535 | 1.04% | B |
| 4BR | $3,660 | $335,042 | 1.09% | B |
| 5BR | $4,246 | $383,837 | 1.11% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 76018 in Arlington, TX, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2240. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for a unit to be considered affordable under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. In comparison, the market rent, as measured by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $2035. This indicates that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to cashflow positively at the HUD FMR rate, without needing to rely on premium units.
To further analyze the market dynamics, consider the median home value in the area, which is $289,562. Using this figure, we can calculate a rent-to-price ratio. Dividing the HUD FMR of $2240 by the median home value gives us a ratio of approximately 0.77%. This suggests that rental income from a Section 8 property would represent a modest portion of the potential equity value in the property, but it still provides a reasonable return on investment.
Note that the data provided does not include the number of days on market (DOM) or the percentage of price cuts made by sellers. However, these metrics typically impact the buy-versus-rent decision. Given the positive cashflow from the HUD FMR exceeding the ZORI, and the relatively stable median home value, the primary strength for Section 8 investors in ZIP 76018 is likely to be cashflow. The ability to generate a steady income stream above market rates without the need for premium units offers a compelling opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to capitalize on a robust tenant base.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.