Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 76443 - 2027

Location: Eastland County, TX | Metro: Abilene, TX MSA

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$910
1 Bedroom	$920
2 Bedrooms	$1,150
3 Bedrooms	$1,490
4 Bedrooms	$1,790
5 Bedrooms	$2,076
6 Bedrooms	$2,325
7 Bedrooms	$2,511
8 Bedrooms	$2,637

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

1,999

Median Household Income

$49,915

Housing Units

1,050

Renter Percentage

21.4%

Occupancy Rate

74.7%

Renter Occupied

168

The ZIP code 76443, located in Texas, is characterized by a mix of residential areas that cater to both homeowners and renters. The region benefits from a stable economic environment, supported by local industries and services, making it an attractive location for real estate investments. However, the market dynamics are influenced by various factors such as the Federal Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rents, which provide insights into the potential returns on investment.

The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 76443 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $910, indicating the maximum amount that landlords can charge for a unit to remain affordable under the Section 8 program.
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) reports the average market rent in the area to be $791, suggesting that the actual rental prices are below the FMR, leaving room for landlords to potentially increase their rents while still remaining within the Section 8 guidelines.
The median home value in ZIP 76443 stands at $189,706, which is relatively low compared to other regions in Texas, making it accessible for first-time homebuyers and investors looking to acquire properties at a lower cost.
Renters make up 21.4% of the housing market in this ZIP code, highlighting a significant portion of the population that relies on rental properties, thus creating demand for rental units.
The median household income in the area is $49,915, providing context on the financial capacity of the residents to afford housing, whether rented or owned.

The combination of a relatively low median home value and a moderate renter share indicates a balanced market where both homeownership and renting coexist. With the market rent being significantly lower than the FMR, there is an opportunity for landlords to adjust their rental rates upwards without exceeding the affordability threshold for Section 8 participants. This scenario presents a favorable condition for small-portfolio investors seeking to enter the rental market in ZIP 76443, as it suggests potential for steady rental income and appreciation in property values over time.

Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.