Location: Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | Metro: Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX MSA
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 | $1,130 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,140 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,315 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,840 | $196,854 | 0.93% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 77619, located in Jefferson County within the Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX MSA, reveals a significant gap between the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rents. The HUD FMR for ZIP 77619 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,270, while the market rent, as indicated by the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI), stands at $1,501. This discrepancy means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers will experience marginal cash flow at the FMR rate, as they would be renting below the market average. However, with premium units that can command higher rents, cash flow could be positive.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in ZIP 77619, which is $177,653. Using this figure, we can calculate a rent-to-price ratio. A simple calculation shows that the annual rent ($1,501 x 12 months) is approximately $18,012, leading to a rent-to-price ratio of about 10.1%. This suggests that rental income is relatively high compared to the purchase price, making it an attractive option for investors looking for steady returns.
The dynamics of rent versus buy in ZIP 77619 also play a role in investment decisions. With a median Days on Market (DOM) of N/A and a price-cut share of 0.2%, it indicates that the housing market is stable and that homes are typically sold close to their asking price. This stability reduces the risk of needing to lower prices significantly to sell, providing a solid foundation for long-term investment strategies.
In conclusion, for Section 8 investors in ZIP 77619, the strongest angle is stability. While cash flow might be marginal due to the lower FMR compared to market rents, the stable housing market and favorable rent-to-price ratio ensure consistent returns and minimal risk of property depreciation.
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.