Location: Austin County, TX | Metro: Austin County, TX HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,050 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,850 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,146 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,404 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,596 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,726 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP code 78944 does not work favorably due to the absence of specific market rent data. However, the Family Monthly Income Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $960 for fiscal year 2024, which provides a baseline for assessing rental income viability.
Acquisition in this ZIP code is challenging to gauge precisely without the median home value, days on market (DOM), and the percentage of homes that have undergone price reductions. These metrics are critical for determining whether purchasing properties for rental purposes is financially prudent.
Tenant demand in ZIP 78944 is moderate. The total population is 720, with renters comprising 14.3% of the residents. This indicates that there is a smaller pool of potential tenants compared to larger metropolitan areas, but it also suggests less competition among landlords.
Verdict: While the Family Monthly Income Fair Market Rent provides a useful benchmark for rental pricing, the lack of detailed market data makes it difficult to definitively assess the financial feasibility of acquiring properties for rental purposes in ZIP 78944. Landlords should proceed cautiously, ensuring they conduct thorough local market research before making any investment decisions. The limited tenant demand means that success will depend heavily on property management skills and the ability to attract and retain tenants in a smaller market.
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.