Location: La Salle County, TX | Metro: Frio County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,160 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,890 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,436 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,728 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,946 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,093 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 78017, located in the La Salle County, TX metro area, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The fundamental reason for this classification lies in the favorable financial metrics that support long-term rental stability and profitability.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,060. This figure represents the government's benchmark for determining the maximum allowable rent for Section 8 housing vouchers. In contrast, the market rent for ZIP 78017 is $1,258, indicating a substantial spread between the two rates. Landlords participating in the Section 8 program can secure a steady stream of income, guaranteed by the federal government, which is above the average FMR but still below the market rate. This ensures that the properties remain attractive to tenants while providing a reliable source of revenue for investors.
Furthermore, the median home value in ZIP 78017 is $152,970. This relatively low property value means that acquisition costs are manageable, allowing for a higher potential return on investment. With the median income in the area standing at $59,808, there is a significant portion of the population who would benefit from the affordability of Section 8 housing. The renter share of 35.5% also suggests a robust demand for rental properties, particularly those that qualify under the Section 8 program.
In conclusion, ZIP 78017 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy due to the positive spread between the FMR and market rent, coupled with reasonable property values and a solid tenant base. These factors ensure consistent cash flow and minimize the risk associated with vacancy and non-payment, making it a stable component of any diversified real estate investment portfolio.
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.