Location: Gonzales County, TX | Metro: DeWitt County, TX
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 | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,763 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,133 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,430 | $269,359 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A household in ZIP code 78629, with a median income of $59,521, faces significant challenges in affording the market rate rent of $829 per month, according to Census ACS data. This financial strain becomes even more pronounced when compared to the federal payment standard for housing vouchers, which is set at $990 per month for the metro area in fiscal year 2026.
The disparity between the median income and the rental costs highlights a substantial affordability gap. In ZIP 78629, where 41.6% of the population are renters and the total population stands at 12,740, this gap means intense competition among landlords. Renters are likely to prioritize cost-effective options, making it essential for landlords to consider both voucher and cash-pay strategies carefully.
Taking into account the federal voucher payment of $990, landlords can secure a more stable income stream with fewer risks associated with late payments or non-payment. However, the market rate rent of $829 indicates that many renters might struggle to pay even the lower amount without assistance. This suggests that landlords who accept vouchers could attract a larger pool of potential tenants, especially those who qualify for the federal assistance program.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: accepting housing vouchers can be a strategic advantage in ZIP 78629. It allows them to tap into a government-backed payment system while providing affordable housing options to a community that desperately needs them. Landlords should weigh the benefits of guaranteed income against the administrative requirements of participating in the voucher program.
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.