Location: Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | Metro: Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY 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 | $1,220 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,400 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,564 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,872 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,102 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,257 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,680 | $245,892 | 0.68% | D |
| 3BR | $2,000 | $321,672 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $2,210 | $397,197 | 0.56% | F |
| 5BR | $2,564 | $456,237 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 12302 (Schenectady, NY) on the axes of yield and stability reveals it to be a steady-cashflow zone for real estate investment.
On the yield axis, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 12302 is set at $1,380 for fiscal year 2024. This figure is below the market rent of $1,685, indicating that properties in this area can potentially be rented out above the FMR to achieve higher yields. However, the median home value of $322,184 suggests that the capital investment required is relatively high compared to the rental income, which limits the overall yield potential.
Regarding stability, ZIP 12302 scores well. With 24.2% of residents being renters, there is a moderate but not overwhelming reliance on rental income for housing. The average Days on Market (DOM) of 13 days shows that homes are typically sold quickly, suggesting a healthy demand for property. Additionally, the median household income of $98,163 provides a solid financial foundation for tenants, reducing the risk of default and increasing the likelihood of timely rent payments.
These factors combined indicate that while ZIP 12302 offers opportunities for positive cash flow, it does not exhibit characteristics typical of a high-yield/low-stability market. Instead, the balance of rental rates, home values, and tenant incomes points towards a stable and reliable investment environment, suitable for those seeking consistent returns rather than speculative gains.
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.