Location: Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | Metro: Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, 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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $860 | $112,569 | 0.76% | D |
| 2BR | $1,020 | $125,363 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $1,370 | $165,788 | 0.83% | C |
| 4BR | $1,700 | $184,858 | 0.92% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 77026 in Houston, TX, stands out within Harris County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 21,981 residents, this area has a significant rental market, with 56.3% of its inhabitants renting their homes. The median income here is relatively modest at $39,211, while the median home value is notably higher at $146,872. This combination suggests a diverse mix of homeowners and renters, indicative of a middle-class neighborhood.
When it comes to Section 8 vouchers, the data reveals an interesting dynamic. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 77026 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $910, which is significantly lower than the market rent, measured by ZORI (Zillow Rent Index), at $1,138. This disparity means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive a rental amount that is below the average market rate. However, the program's stability and the guaranteed rent payments can be attractive to landlords, especially in a rental-heavy environment like ZIP 77026.
The data signature for ZIP 77026 reads as stable. The high percentage of renters and the established median home value suggest a consistent demand for both rental and owned housing. While the difference between the FMR and market rent rates might indicate some pressure on landlords, the overall economic conditions and demographic makeup of the area support a steady housing market. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider these factors carefully when deciding whether to accept Section 8 vouchers in this ZIP code.
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.