Location: Howard County, TX | Metro: Borden County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,216 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,482 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,815 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 79511 stands at $117,578, indicating a relatively affluent area. However, when it comes to affordability, the picture changes. The market rate for rent, according to the Census American Community Survey (ACS), is $1,152. This figure represents a significant portion of the average household's income, especially considering that the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,270. This means that even the subsidized rate under the Section 8 program is higher than the current market rate.
The affordability gap is evident, as the FMR exceeds the market rate, suggesting that households in ZIP 79511 may struggle to pay the higher rates required by the voucher program. With only 10.9% of the 1,811 population being renters, competition among landlords could be fierce for those few tenants who are willing and able to pay the higher rates.
For landlords considering whether to accept Section 8 vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants, the decision hinges on the local rental market dynamics. Given that the FMR is $1,270 while the market rate is $1,152, landlords might find that cash-paying tenants offer a better financial return without the administrative complexities associated with voucher programs. However, landlords should also consider the potential for securing long-term, stable tenancy through Section 8, which can outweigh the initial cost considerations.
In summary, landlords in ZIP 79511 must weigh the benefits of accepting higher payments through Section 8 vouchers against the realities of the local rental market where most households prefer or are limited to paying around $1,152. The strategy should align with the landlord's goals for tenant stability and financial return.
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.