Location: McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | Metro: McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX MSA
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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,310 | $130,056 | 1.01% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 78579 stands at $19,172, making it challenging for residents to afford the market rate rent of $948 per month based on Census ACS data. The voucher payment standard for this area, set at $960 (FMR for zip FY 2024), is only slightly higher than the market rate, indicating that the financial burden on renters is nearly identical whether they pay out-of-pocket or use a voucher.
With 31.7% of the 2,039 population being renters, there is a significant segment of the community that relies on affordable housing options. This means that the affordability gap is substantial, putting pressure on both renters and landlords. Landlords must consider the economic reality faced by potential tenants when setting their rental rates and deciding on acceptance policies for Section 8 vouchers.
The fact that the market rate and voucher payment standards are so close suggests that landlords will face stiff competition if they choose to accept only cash-paying tenants. Many renters may be unable to meet the market rate due to their low median income, leading them to seek properties that accept Section 8 vouchers. For landlords, accepting vouchers could ensure a steady stream of reliable tenants who can afford the rent, even if the payment comes directly from the government rather than from private individuals.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: accepting Section 8 vouchers is a strategic move that aligns with the economic realities of ZIP 78579. Given the high proportion of low-income renters and the tight alignment between market rates and voucher payments, landlords should seriously consider accommodating voucher holders to remain competitive and attract stable tenants.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.