Location: San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | Metro: San Antonio-New Braunfels, 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 | $1,430 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,560 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,271 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,664 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,957 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,155 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,880 | $162,815 | 1.15% | B |
| 3BR | $2,430 | $227,619 | 1.07% | B |
| 4BR | $2,820 | $272,376 | 1.04% | B |
| 5BR | $3,271 | $303,370 | 1.08% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 78252 in San Antonio, TX, presents an interesting scenario when viewed from the perspective of renters. The median income for a household in this area stands at $85,518, which must be considered against the market rate for rental properties. The Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) indicates that the average monthly rent in 78252 is $1,676. This amount represents a significant portion of the median household income, suggesting that many residents might find it challenging to cover their housing costs without financial strain.
To further understand the affordability situation, we can compare the market rate to the federal payment standard for Housing Choice Vouchers, also known as Section 8 vouchers. For fiscal year 2024, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 78252 is set at $1,770. This figure is slightly above the ZORI, indicating that voucher holders might have a bit more flexibility when looking for suitable housing options compared to those paying out-of-pocket.
The demographic data shows that 14.0% of the 21,790 population are renters. Given the tight budget constraints faced by many households, the affordability gap between the median income and the rental market rate could lead to increased competition among landlords. Tenants may prioritize cost-saving measures, such as utilizing Section 8 vouchers, over paying higher rents out-of-pocket. This dynamic creates a scenario where landlords must decide whether to accept vouchers, which guarantee timely payments but limit rent increases, or focus on attracting cash-paying tenants who might offer more immediate financial benefits but pose greater risk in terms of reliability.
The takeaway for landlords considering their strategy in ZIP 78252 is clear: understanding the local economic conditions and tenant preferences is crucial. While accepting vouchers ensures a steady stream of income, it may restrict the ability to adjust rents according to market trends. On the other hand, targeting cash-paying tenants can be more lucrative but requires careful consideration of the local affordability context to ensure competitiveness and tenant retention. Balancing these factors will be key to success in this market.
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.