Location: Brazoria County, TX | Metro: Brazoria County, 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 | $1,280 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,520 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,213 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,599 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,887 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,081 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,250 | $350,038 | 0.64% | D |
| 4BR | $2,770 | $456,366 | 0.61% | D |
| 5BR | $3,213 | $602,546 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1440 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for ZIP 77578 for fiscal year 2024, indicating the maximum rental assistance payment standard for the area. However, the actual market rent, known as the ZORI, stands at 1816, suggesting that landlords can charge a premium over the FMR. The median home value in this ZIP code is 441268, which reflects a robust housing market. Renter share in ZIP 77578 is at 16.9%, meaning nearly one in six residents are renters, creating a significant demand for rental properties. Median income for the area is 134016, providing insight into the financial capabilities of potential tenants. The average Days on Market (DOM) is 54, showing that homes are typically rented out relatively quickly once listed. Only 0.3% of listings experience price cuts, indicating strong pricing power for landlords in this region.
The disparity between the FMR and the ZORI suggests that landlords participating in the Section 8 program could potentially see their rents subsidized up to 1440, while still charging closer to the market rate of 1816. This difference can be particularly advantageous given the high median home value and the strong rental market dynamics in ZIP 77578. With a low price-cut share and a quick DOM, it's evident that landlords have a favorable position when setting rental rates, especially for those willing to work with the Section 8 program.
Given these figures, the Section 8 program represents a stable source of rental income for landlords in ZIP 77578, with the potential to charge above the subsidy amount without facing significant challenges in tenant acquisition. The robust housing market and the financial stability of the area support the viability of such investments. Therefore, for small-portfolio investors looking for consistent returns, participating in Section 8 in ZIP 77578 is a prudent decision.
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.