Location: Nassau-Suffolk, NY | Metro: Nassau-Suffolk, NY 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 | $1,800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,150 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,480 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,400 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,944 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,417 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,770 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,009 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,480 | $544,951 | 0.46% | F |
| 3BR | $3,210 | $983,425 | 0.33% | F |
| 4BR | $3,400 | $1,168,769 | 0.29% | F |
| 5BR | $3,944 | $1,440,493 | 0.27% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In Rockville Centre, NY, specifically ZIP code 11570, there are notable risks for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Firstly, tenant turnover poses a significant challenge. The market rent stands at $3,516, which is notably higher than the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $2,380 for fiscal year 2024. This discrepancy can lead to frequent changes in occupancy, as tenants might struggle to afford the market rent when their vouchers cover only the lower FMR.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. The average Days on Market (DOM) is not available, which makes it difficult to predict how long properties might remain vacant. In a competitive rental market, this uncertainty can translate into extended periods without rental income, putting pressure on cash flow.
Deferred maintenance is also a risk factor. With a typical home value of $962,629 and a median household income of $157,163, landlords must be prepared for potential maintenance costs that could exceed the income generated by Section 8 tenants. These costs are often not covered by the voucher program, leading to additional financial burdens.
However, these risks must be weighed against the high renter share in the area, which stands at 24.0%. High renter density typically indicates strong demand for rental housing, including units that accept Section 8 vouchers. This suggests that while individual risks exist, the overall demand for rentals should help mitigate some of these concerns.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.