Location: Chenango County, NY | Metro: Chenango County, NY
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,270 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,270 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,633 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,185 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,344 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 13844, located in Chenango County, NY metro, serves as a strong cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the favorable financial metrics that support stable rental income.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a one-bedroom apartment in the $1,000 metro area for fiscal year 2026 is significantly lower than the market rate of $1,600. This creates a spread of $600 per month, which can be leveraged to ensure steady cash flow. The median home value in this ZIP code is $153,491, indicating an affordable housing market where properties can be acquired at reasonable prices. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can capitalize on this by purchasing homes below the median value and renting them out at the higher market rate, thereby securing a reliable profit margin.
While the potential for rapid appreciation is limited due to the lack of significant price-cut shares and days on market (DOM), the focus should remain on the consistent cash flow that this ZIP code offers. The median income of $61,071 suggests a stable economic base, supporting the ability of residents to meet their rental obligations without the volatility often seen in areas with higher renter shares. With a 15.4% renter share, there is a sufficient demand for rental properties, but not so high that it compromises the stability of the local housing market.
In conclusion, ZIP 13844 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its low FMR compared to the market rate, along with an affordable median home value, provides a solid foundation for generating predictable and positive cash flow. Although appreciation opportunities may be modest, the primary benefit lies in the security and reliability of rental income, making it an ideal choice for investors focused on long-term stability.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.