Location: Bee County, TX | Metro: Bee County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $950 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,498 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,623 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rental landscape in ZIP code 78145, with a median household income of $46,563, presents unique challenges and opportunities for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The absence of specific market rate figures suggests either limited data or a niche rental market, which could indicate higher variability in pricing and demand.
In contrast, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) standard for ZIP 78145 is set at $1,350 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the maximum amount that a Section 8 voucher holder can contribute towards rent, based on the area's fair market value. Given the low number of renters—only 0.0% of the 64-person population—the competition for tenants is minimal, but so is the pool of potential renters.
The affordability gap becomes evident when comparing the median income to the FMR. A household earning $46,563 would struggle to pay more than $1,350 per month in rent without assistance, as this amount represents approximately 31% of their annual income. For context, the generally accepted guideline is that housing costs should not exceed 30% of a household's income. Therefore, landlords operating in ZIP 78145 must consider the economic reality faced by local residents.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies in ZIP 78145 is clear. Given the limited number of renters and the tight affordability constraints, prioritizing Section 8 vouchers might be the most viable option. While voucher processing can introduce administrative overhead, it ensures a steady stream of rent payments tied directly to the government's FMR standards. Landlords who aim to attract cash-paying tenants will need to price competitively below the FMR to appeal to the local income levels, potentially leading to lower profit margins but also less bureaucratic involvement.
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.