Location: Montgomery County, NY | Metro: Montgomery 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,589 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,922 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,250 | $200,122 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $1,370 | $231,410 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 13428 is set at $970 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, meaning that if you participate in this program, your rental income will be capped at this amount per unit. It's important to note that this does not necessarily mean the actual rent you can charge will be $970; rather, it's the maximum amount the voucher will cover.
In comparison, the average rent in ZIP 13428, based on recent Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, is $487. This indicates that the FMR is significantly higher than the typical market rate, potentially making Section 8 properties more financially viable for landlords.
The renter share in ZIP 13428 is 22.7%, which suggests a moderate demand for rental housing. However, given the gap between the FMR and the local average rent, there is likely a strong demand for affordable housing options that fall within the Section 8 range.
Acquiring a property in ZIP 13428 for use in the Section 8 program could cost around $189,409, based on the median home value in the area. This price point makes it accessible for small-portfolio investors looking to enter the affordable housing market.
Before proceeding with your first Section 8 rental, ensure that your property meets all the necessary quality standards, known as Housing Quality Standards (HQS), set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These standards are designed to make sure that the homes are safe and livable for tenants. A thorough inspection and any required repairs must be completed to avoid potential issues with contract approval.
In summary, the $970 FMR offers a higher guaranteed income compared to the local average of $487, while the 22.7% renter share indicates steady demand. With an acquisition cost of about $189,409, investing in a Section 8 property can be a strategic move. Just remember to verify that your property meets HUD’s HQS before finalizing your decision.
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.