Location: Wheeler County, TX | Metro: Wheeler County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 79096 is home to 2,095 residents, with 24.1% being renters. This indicates that while there is a notable segment of the population that rents, it is not a renter-heavy area. The median household income in this ZIP is $67,165, which suggests that the majority of residents have relatively stable financial situations.
The typical market rent in 79096 is $963 per month. To put this into perspective, this amount represents approximately 17.8% of the median household income. This figure is calculated by taking the monthly rent ($963) and dividing it by the annual median income ($67,165), then multiplying by 12 months to get an accurate percentage. This ratio is favorable for both tenants and landlords, as it allows tenants to manage their housing costs without overextending their budget.
Comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,010 (for FY 2026, metro area), we see that the actual rent is slightly below the FMR. This means that landlords in 79096 can potentially offer competitive rates while still staying within the guidelines set for Section 8 vouchers. However, the scarcity of vouchers in this area, due to the lower percentage of renters, could make it challenging to attract Section 8 tenants.
A landlord in 79096 should expect a tenant profile that includes individuals who value affordability but also have the means to contribute a significant portion of their income towards rent. These tenants will likely be seeking stability and may include families, young professionals, or retirees. While the demand for rental properties exists, landlords should prepare for a moderate competition for Section 8 vouchers. It's important to note that despite the lower rent compared to the FMR, the percentage of income spent on rent remains reasonable, making the area attractive for those looking to balance cost and quality of living.
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.