Location: Live Oak County, TX | Metro: Bee County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $900 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 78389 within the Live Oak County, TX metro reveals several key points regarding its housing market dynamics. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 78389 is set at $1,090 for fiscal year 2026, closely aligning with the broader market rent of $1,112. This indicates that the rental prices in this area are in line with what is considered fair and typical for the county.
The median home value in ZIP 78389 stands at $177,012, which suggests that it falls into the category of a mid-tier neighborhood within the metro. This figure reflects a balance between affordability and market standards, making it neither particularly expensive nor notably cheaper compared to other areas in Live Oak County.
A notable feature of ZIP 78389 is its 15.8% renter share, which is indicative of a moderate proportion of renters in the area. While this percentage is significant, it does not necessarily signal a Section 8 sweet spot without additional context on the overall distribution of renter shares across the county. However, the close proximity of the FMR to the market rent, combined with the below-average home values, could imply that this area might attract a higher number of low-income households who rely on government assistance for housing.
To determine if ZIP 78389 is a value pocket, a mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market, we must consider how its metrics compare to the average metrics of other ZIP codes in Live Oak County. Given the data provided, the ZIP appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood due to its median home value being reflective of general market conditions.
The divergence worth noting is the combination of a slightly below-market home value and a substantial renter share. This could indicate a potential value pocket for landlords and investors interested in properties that serve a population reliant on rental assistance programs such as Section 8. Such an area can offer steady occupancy rates and a stable income stream, though the returns might not be as high as those found in premium sub-markets where home values and rents are significantly above the county average.
In conclusion, based on the given figures, ZIP 78389 in Live Oak County, TX, represents a mid-tier neighborhood with characteristics that make it a potentially attractive investment for those targeting affordable housing markets, especially those interested in leveraging Section 8 programs.
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.