Location: Roosevelt County, NM | Metro: Curry County, NM
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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,020 | $99,637 | 1.02% | B |
| 3BR | $1,410 | $188,264 | 0.75% | D |
| 4BR | $1,700 | $228,545 | 0.74% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
980 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 88130 in Portales, NM, as set by HUD for metro FY 2026. This figure represents the maximum rental amount for units to qualify under the Section 8 program. In contrast, the actual market rent, known as ZORI, stands at 907, indicating that the FMR is slightly above the current market conditions. The median home value in the area is 143,585, which provides a stable base for property investments. With a renter share of 40.6%, there is a significant portion of the population actively seeking rental properties, making it a viable market for landlords. The median income of 52,434 suggests that residents have the financial capacity to meet the rental demands, especially when considering the relatively low ZORI. The day DOM (days on market) is listed as N/A, which could imply either very quick turnovers or an issue with the data collection process. However, the price-cut share of 0.2% indicates that few landlords are having to lower their rental rates to attract tenants, further supporting the idea that the market is robust and competitive. Given these metrics, the potential for successful Section 8 participation in ZIP 88130 appears strong, with the ability to charge slightly above market rates while still being affordable to the majority of renters. Additionally, the low need for price adjustments and the healthy renter-to-owner ratio point towards a favorable environment for both landlords and small-portfolio investors. Therefore, the verdict for Section 8 participation in Portales, NM, is positive, with ample opportunities to secure steady rental income without significant risk.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.