Location: College Station-Bryan, TX | Metro: College Station-Bryan, 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 | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,170 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,436 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,728 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,946 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,093 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,270 | $221,163 | 0.57% | F |
| 3BR | $1,760 | $310,650 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,100 | $431,673 | 0.49% | F |
| 5BR | $2,436 | $649,872 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The 77845 ZIP code covers the southern and western expanses of College Station, an area defined by its proximity to Texas A&M University and spacious, master-planned communities. This is largely a family-friendly suburban environment characterized by newer single-family developments and easy access to major thoroughfares like Highway 6. The local economy remains tethered to the presence of Texas A&M, which acts as the region's dominant employer and stabilizing force, while the Wolf Pen Creek District offers nearby dining and entertainment options.
From a strictly financial perspective, the gap between subsidized payments and market rates presents a challenge. The HUD FY2024 Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom unit in this ZIP is set at $1,190, while the current market rent (Zillow ZORI) sits significantly higher at $1,829, leaving a shortfall of $639 per month. Investors must also contend with a median home value of $366,360 and a median days on market of 91 days, suggesting that while appreciation potential exists, the local market moves at a moderate pace that requires patience for resale.
The tenant pool is relatively robust, underpinned by a median household income of $88,851 and a renter share of 37.2%. This demographic suggests a population with the financial stability to afford quality housing, yet the demand for affordable options persists. Families are drawn to the area for its access to highly-rated schools within the College Station Independent School District and the abundance of parks, making it a desirable location for long-term renters, including those utilizing housing vouchers.
The Section 8 verdict for 77845 leans toward a stability and appreciation play rather than immediate cash flow. With the 2BR voucher rate trailing the market by $639, investors should not rely on government payments to maximize immediate yields. Instead, the strongest angle is the area's long-term asset growth, driven by the stability of a major university and a high-income resident base that supports property values over time.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.