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 | $1,720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,650 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,920 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,387 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,096 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,301 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,220 | $268,024 | 0.83% | C |
| 3BR | $2,650 | $297,871 | 0.89% | C |
| 4BR | $2,920 | $403,318 | 0.72% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Roebling, NJ, located in ZIP code 08554, is a residential area with a population of 3,527 residents. Only 13.4% of these residents are renters, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. The median household income here is $89,242, which suggests that the neighborhood is relatively affluent. The median home value stands at $296,908, reflecting a stable housing market where homes are valued at a premium.
In terms of rent economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 08554 as of the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,940. This figure is notably higher than the reported market rent of $1,818 based on Census ACS data. The gap between the FMR and the market rent implies an opportunity for landlords who can position their properties at the higher end of the rental spectrum, potentially attracting tenants willing to pay the FMR rates.
Given the demographic and economic profile of Roebling, NJ, it is suitable for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For hands-off operators, the relatively high FMR compared to market rents means that Section 8 vouchers could cover a significant portion of the rental costs, making it easier to manage properties without active tenant screening or maintenance. On the other hand, for hands-on value-add buyers, the affluent nature of the neighborhood and the potential to increase rental rates closer to the FMR offer a chance to improve property values and rents through targeted investments in upgrades and amenities.
The low percentage of renters indicates a market where there might be fewer rental units available, which could present a challenge for voucher operators in finding suitable properties. However, it also presents an opportunity for value-add investors to capitalize on the demand for quality rentals in an otherwise owner-occupied community. With a median income well above the national average, there is a strong likelihood that the local economy supports a robust rental market, especially for properties that cater to families and individuals seeking affordable housing options within a desirable location.
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.