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 | $1,470 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,490 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,870 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,329 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,728 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,026 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,227 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,750 | $218,741 | 0.8% | C |
| 3BR | $2,290 | $312,581 | 0.73% | D |
| 4BR | $2,870 | $382,160 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 76118, located in the Fort Worth-Arlington, TX HUD Metro FMR Area, offers a strategic opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to anchor their cash flow. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1530 for fiscal year 2024, while the market rent stands slightly higher at $1579. This indicates a tight spread of just $49 between the FMR and market rates, making it an attractive location for securing steady rental income through Section 8 vouchers.
The median home value in ZIP 76118 is $325,836, which is relatively stable. This stability, combined with the low price-cut share of 0.3%, suggests that property values are unlikely to fluctuate dramatically, providing a reliable foundation for long-term investment. Additionally, the average days on market (DOM) being N/A implies that properties are generally sold quickly, reducing holding costs and increasing liquidity for investors.
A key factor supporting the cash-flow anchor strategy is the median income in the area, which is $94,530. This level of income indicates that there is a sufficient economic base to support both voucher recipients and non-voucher tenants. With a 26.9% renter share, there is a substantial demand for rental properties, ensuring that landlords can maintain occupancy rates and sustain cash flows.
In summary, ZIP 76118 serves as a solid cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The minimal spread between FMR and market rents, coupled with stable property values and a robust local economy, makes it an ideal choice for investors seeking consistent returns without the risk associated with volatile markets.
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.