Location: El Paso, TX | Metro: El Paso, 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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,332 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,612 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,821 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,962 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,200 | $168,059 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $1,630 | $235,313 | 0.69% | D |
| 4BR | $2,010 | $283,067 | 0.71% | D |
| 5BR | $2,332 | $351,702 | 0.66% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 79935 in El Paso, TX, is characterized by a significant rental population. With 18,720 residents, over half (50.1%) are renters, indicating a robust demand for rental properties. This high percentage of renters suggests that there is likely a substantial number of Section 8 tenants seeking housing in this area.
The median household income in 79935 is $61,323, which provides a basis for understanding the affordability of housing. The average market rent of $1,101 is notably lower than the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,150 for FY 2024, making it slightly more affordable for tenants receiving government assistance.
To assess the impact of rent on local incomes, we can calculate that the typical rent consumes approximately 21.5% of the median household income. This calculation is derived from dividing the market rent ($1,101) by the annual median income ($61,323) and multiplying by 12 months. This figure underscores the financial strain many renters might face, especially those relying on Section 8 vouchers to cover their housing costs.
A landlord in ZIP 79935 should anticipate a tenant pool that heavily relies on Section 8 vouchers. Given the high percentage of renters and the fact that the market rent is below the FMR, it's reasonable to expect that a considerable portion of these renters will be using vouchers to secure housing. The demand for affordable rental units is strong, and landlords who understand and comply with Section 8 regulations can benefit from a steady stream of qualified tenants.
In conclusion, 79935 is a renter-heavy ZIP code with a deep demand for Section 8 vouchers. The income levels and market rents indicate that tenants will require assistance to meet housing costs, making it essential for landlords to be prepared to work with the voucher system to attract and retain tenants.
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.