Location: Delaware County, NY | Metro: Delaware 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 | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $950 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,550 | $283,023 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rental landscape in ZIP code 13842 is characterized by a unique balance between income levels and housing costs. With a median household income of $88,500, residents have a solid financial foundation, but the absence of specific market rate data suggests a need for careful analysis when comparing local rental costs to federal guidelines.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) standard for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,220. This figure represents the maximum amount that Section 8 vouchers will cover for rent in the area. Given the lack of precise market rate information, it's crucial to consider how this FMR compares to typical rental prices. If market rates exceed this threshold, it could indicate a significant affordability gap for voucher holders.
The ZIP code has a relatively low percentage of renters at 6.4%, with a total population of 582. This means that the rental market is quite small, which can lead to increased competition among landlords for the limited number of tenants. A smaller pool of potential renters means that landlords must carefully evaluate their pricing strategies to attract both voucher recipients and those willing to pay cash.
Landlords in 13842 should be aware of the dynamics between income levels and rental costs. While the median income is strong, the limited number of renters and the specific FMR standard create a challenging environment. Landlords considering whether to accept Section 8 vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants should weigh the benefits of steady, government-backed payments against the potential for higher rents from non-voucher households.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: understanding the local rental market and the federal guidelines is essential. Accepting vouchers can provide a stable source of income, especially in a competitive market where the number of renters is low. However, landlords should also explore opportunities to attract cash-paying tenants who might be able to afford higher rents, given the area's median income. Balancing these strategies will be key to success in 13842.
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.