Location: Otsego County, NY | Metro: Otsego 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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,030 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,299 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,483 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,607 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,570 | $224,453 | 0.7% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rental market in ZIP code 13796 presents an interesting dynamic for both renters and landlords. The median income of $88,750 suggests financial stability among residents, yet the market rate for rent at $1,096 poses a challenge. This figure represents approximately 12.4% of the median income, which is within a reasonable range for housing expenses. However, when compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set at $1,220 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026, it becomes evident that the actual market rate is below the voucher payment threshold.
This discrepancy means that households receiving housing vouchers could find the ZIP code relatively affordable, as their voucher would cover more than the current market rate. For landlords, this scenario opens up opportunities to attract tenants who might be able to pay closer to the $1,220 FMR through voucher programs, thereby increasing potential revenue beyond what the current market rate offers.
With only 18.2% of the 1,210 population being renters, the competition among landlords is likely to be fierce. The limited number of renters implies that there are fewer potential cash-paying tenants available, making the reliance on voucher recipients a strategic necessity for landlords to ensure steady occupancy and income.
In summary, landlords in ZIP 13796 should consider focusing on accepting housing vouchers as part of their rental strategy. Given the current market rate is lower than the voucher payment standard, there is a significant opportunity to increase rental income while also benefiting from the stability that government-backed payments provide. This approach is particularly prudent given the low percentage of renters in the area, which necessitates maximizing the pool of potential tenants to remain competitive.
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.