Location: Greene County, NY | Metro: Greene County, NY
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 | $1,240 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,420 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,720 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,155 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,534 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,817 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,008 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,750 | $237,143 | 0.74% | D |
| 3BR | $2,290 | $320,568 | 0.71% | D |
| 4BR | $2,720 | $351,661 | 0.77% | D |
| 5BR | $3,155 | $416,005 | 0.76% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP code 12413, located in Cairo, NY, within the Greene County, NY metro area, does not favorably align for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,730, while the actual market rent based on Census ACS data is only $1,296. This discrepancy means that landlords would have to significantly increase rents to meet the FMR, which could deter potential tenants.
Acquisition in this area is moderately affordable with a median home value of $289,616. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes needing price cuts to sell suggests that the housing market might be less active or competitive. This absence of information makes it challenging to gauge how easily properties can be acquired and resold if needed.
Tenant demand in ZIP 12413 is relatively stable. With a population of 3,368 and a renter share of 32.1%, there is a consistent pool of individuals who prefer renting over owning. This demographic supports the viability of rental properties, but the low renter share indicates that competition among rental units could be stiff.
Verdict: While there is a steady demand for rentals in Cairo, NY, the significant gap between the Fair Market Rent and the actual market rent poses a challenge for landlords aiming to maximize their income. Acquisition costs are reasonable, but the lack of detailed market activity metrics introduces uncertainty. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should carefully consider these factors before investing in the area.
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.