Location: Rochester, NY | Metro: Buffalo-Cheektowaga, NY MSA
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 | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,020 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,358 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,476 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,210 | $221,217 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $255,829 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $1,680 | $267,139 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP 14012 (Barker, NY, Niagara County, Rochester, NY MSA metro) reveals several key points. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1,070, while the Census ACS reports a market rent of $715. This means that voucher tenants will generate positive cash flow at the FMR rate, as it significantly exceeds the current market rent.
The median home value in ZIP 14012 is $233,737. Using the reported market rent of $715, the rent-to-price ratio is approximately 0.35%, indicating a strong potential for rental income relative to property values. This ratio supports the viability of rental investments over home ownership in the area.
Despite the lack of specific data on the median days on market (DOM) and price-cut percentages, the overall trend suggests that the rental market is more robust compared to the buying market. Voucher tenants provide a reliable source of income due to the government subsidy, making them less susceptible to market fluctuations.
The strongest angle for investors in ZIP 14012 is cash flow. With the FMR well above the current market rent, landlords can expect steady and positive returns on their investment properties. This makes Barker, NY, an attractive location for those looking to secure long-term rental income.
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.