Location: Amarillo, TX | Metro: Amarillo, TX HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,821 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,203 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,020 | $122,762 | 0.83% | C |
| 3BR | $1,390 | $178,099 | 0.78% | D |
| 4BR | $1,570 | $235,449 | 0.67% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 79102 in Amarillo, TX, presents a market in flux. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area stands at $1000 for fiscal year 2024, while the actual market rent, as indicated by ZORI, is slightly lower at $938. This suggests that landlords can potentially adjust their rents upwards to align with the FMR, indicating a slight upward pressure on rental rates.
A key indicator of market dynamics is the price-cut share, which is currently at 0.2%. This low figure implies that very few properties are being discounted, suggesting a market where demand is relatively robust compared to supply. In other words, the number of renters seeking housing appears to be close to or exceeding the number of available units, keeping the market balanced or even slightly favoring the landlord.
The median home value in the area is $154,809, which is an important metric for understanding the broader real estate landscape. This figure can help investors gauge the potential for appreciation in property values and the general affordability of homeownership in the area.
A significant portion of the population in ZIP 79102 is renters, with a 50.9% renter share. This high percentage indicates strong long-term housing pressure, as a large segment of the community relies on rental properties. It also suggests that there could be a persistent demand for rental housing, making it a viable investment opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
In summary, ZIP 79102 is a market where demand for rentals is strong, and there is little need for landlords to cut prices. The high renter share points to ongoing housing pressure, likely due to a mix of economic factors and demographic trends. For investors, this translates into a stable rental environment with potential for modest rent increases and steady occupancy rates.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.