Location: Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA | Metro: Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD MSA
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 | $1,590 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,710 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,144 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,521 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,803 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,993 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,460 | $364,590 | 0.67% | D |
| 4BR | $2,710 | $435,047 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 08090, located in the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD MSA, reveals several key points for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The first question concerns whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 08090 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1960. However, the market rent data is currently unavailable, which makes it difficult to provide a direct comparison. Landlords should aim to align their rental rates with the FMR to ensure compliance and profitability.
Regarding the affordability of acquisitions, the median home value in ZIP 08090 is $362,614. This figure serves as a benchmark for potential investments. With no available data on days on market (DOM) and only a 0.2% share of homes experiencing price cuts, the market appears to be stable, suggesting that homes are likely to retain their value or appreciate over time.
The third point is about tenant demand. ZIP 08090 has a total population of 9,815, with 8.8% of residents being renters. This indicates a relatively low but steady demand for rental properties. While the percentage of renters is modest, the absolute number of potential tenants is still significant for small-scale investors.
In conclusion, ZIP 08090 presents a mixed picture for real estate investment. Although the market rent data is missing, aligning with the FMR of $1960 ensures a reasonable income stream. The median home value of $362,614 suggests that property acquisition is feasible for those with capital to invest, especially given the stable market conditions indicated by the low DOM and minimal price-cutting activity. The tenant demand, while not overwhelming, is sufficient to support a modest rental portfolio. Overall, ZIP 08090 could be a viable investment option for landlords and small-portfolio investors who can navigate the uncertainties and capitalize on the stable aspects of the market.
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.