Location: Matagorda County, TX | Metro: Matagorda County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,030 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,297 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,779 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,918 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 77456 stands at $65,284, providing a baseline for understanding the financial capacity of local households. However, the absence of specific market rate data for this area complicates a direct comparison with the voucher payment standard. For context, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is $1,190.
Despite the lack of precise market rate figures, it is evident that the population here is relatively low, with only 1,394 residents, and notably, there are no renters reported in this ZIP code. This suggests a predominantly owner-occupied community, which could imply limited competition for rental properties among landlords.
The affordability gap between the median income and the FMR highlights a challenge for potential renters. Given the median income of $65,284, a household would have approximately $3,512 in monthly gross income, assuming 12 months of income distribution. The $1,190 FMR represents a significant portion of their income, potentially leading to financial strain if they were to rent in this area.
For landlords considering whether to accept Section 8 vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants, the scarcity of renters indicates that attracting any tenant might be difficult. Accepting vouchers could stabilize occupancy rates given the income constraints of local households. However, the low population and absence of renters also suggest that the demand for rental housing is minimal, making both voucher and cash strategies challenging.
Takeaway: Landlords in ZIP 77456 should be prepared for a market with few renters and consider the advantages and disadvantages of accepting Section 8 vouchers carefully. While vouchers can ensure steady tenants, the overall low demand for rentals means that either strategy will face challenges in finding tenants who can meet the $1,190 FMR.
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.