Location: Starr County, TX | Metro: Starr County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 78536 represents a rural area with a small population of 371 residents. The demographic composition indicates that 26.5% of the residents are renters, suggesting a modest demand for rental properties. The median household income in this area stands at $28,393, which is below the national average, reflecting a lower economic status among the inhabitants.
The lack of data on median home values points towards limited housing stock or an underdeveloped real estate market. This scarcity of information can be a double-edged sword for investors, as it may imply untapped potential but also higher risks due to less transparency and fewer historical precedents.
Moving into the specifics of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970. However, there is no available data on the actual market rent, indicating that the rental pricing in this ZIP code might not be well-documented or could be highly variable. This absence of market rent data can make it challenging to gauge the true rental value of properties in the area accurately.
Given these conditions, ZIP 78536 would likely suit a hands-on value-add buyer rather than a hands-off voucher operator. The limited population and the low median income suggest that finding tenants who qualify for Section 8 vouchers might be straightforward, but the success of such investments hinges on active property management and possibly renovations to attract and retain tenants. A passive approach might not yield optimal returns given the uncertainties and the need for strategic adjustments to meet local market demands effectively.
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.