Location: Zavala County, TX | Metro: Zavala County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $990 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,030 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,638 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
30.8% of residents in ZIP code 78829 are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. This statistic underscores the potential demand for rental properties in the area. $28,517 is the median income for this ZIP code, which is notably lower than the national average, suggesting that many tenants may be eligible for government assistance programs such as Section 8. The $1,000 Fair Market Rent (FMR) figure for the metro area as of fiscal year 2026 provides a benchmark for what the government deems reasonable for rental costs, making it crucial for landlords and investors to align their rents with this standard to attract Section 8 tenants.
In ZIP 78829, the absence of specific data points for market rent, median home value, days on market (DOM), and percentage of price-cut share does not diminish the importance of the available metrics. Instead, it highlights the need for landlords and small-portfolio investors to focus on understanding the local rental market dynamics and the impact of low median incomes on tenant eligibility for assistance programs. Given the high renter share and lower median income, properties priced around the $1,000 FMR will likely see strong interest from both regular and Section 8 tenants.
The alignment of rental prices with the FMR is essential for landlords who wish to participate in the Section 8 program, as it ensures compliance with federal guidelines. Additionally, maintaining a competitive edge through efficient property management and attractive amenities can help landlords secure long-term, stable tenancy. For small-portfolio investors looking to diversify their investments, ZIP 78829 presents an opportunity to capitalize on the local rental market's reliance on government-assisted housing.
Section 8 Verdict: ZIP 78829 is ripe for Section 8 investment opportunities, given the substantial renter base and lower median income levels.
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.