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 | $2,080 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,420 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,850 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,670 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,890 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,512 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $5,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,457 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,730 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,850 | $686,248 | 0.42% | F |
| 3BR | $3,670 | $819,924 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $3,890 | $876,513 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $4,512 | $965,002 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in Wantagh, NY (ZIP 11793) presents a unique setup for both short-term and long-term investors. With a median home value of $800,267, the area is positioned in a higher price bracket compared to many other suburban markets. The fact that only 0.1% of listings have been reduced signals strong seller pricing power, indicating that homes are selling at or near their asking prices. This stability suggests that over the next 12-24 months, home values are likely to remain steady, if not slightly increase, due to the limited supply of homes coming down in price.
The median days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A can be interpreted as an efficient market where homes are selling quickly, often before reaching typical DOM thresholds. Rapid sales typically indicate robust demand, which supports the notion of sustained pricing power for sellers.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 11793 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,590, while the current market rent stands at $2,222 according to the Census ACS. This suggests that rental prices are below the government benchmark, which could attract more tenants as the market adjusts towards the FMR level. For small-portfolio investors considering long-term holds, this dynamic implies potential upward pressure on rents, enhancing cash flow returns.
However, for those looking at appreciation as a primary investment goal, the data points to a cautious outlook. Given the stable median home value and the minimal reduction in listing prices, there is little evidence to support significant appreciation in the immediate future. Instead, the realistic appreciation thesis leans towards modest growth, contingent upon broader economic conditions and local employment trends.
In summary, the current market in Wantagh, NY, supports strong pricing power for sellers and suggests that rental prices will likely rise to meet the FMR benchmark. Long-term investors should focus on steady cash flows rather than rapid capital appreciation.
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.