Location: Rochester, NY | Metro: Rochester, 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 | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,140 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,638 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,420 | $114,586 | 1.24% | A |
| 3BR | $1,710 | $122,214 | 1.4% | A |
| 4BR | $1,880 | $106,794 | 1.76% | A+ |
| 5BR | $2,181 | $98,436 | 2.22% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 14621 in Rochester, NY, stands out within Monroe County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 32,381 residents, it has a significant rental market, with 64.6% of households renting their homes. The median income here is $35,383, which is notably lower than the median home value of $106,117, indicating a gap between earning power and housing costs.
For landlords and small-portfolio investors, the Section 8 voucher program plays a crucial role in the local rental market. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 14621 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,160, whereas the market rent, measured by ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index), is $1,401. This difference suggests that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive a rental rate that is approximately 24% below the market average. While this may seem like a significant discount, the stability and reliability of voucher payments often offset the lower rent amounts, making it an attractive option for landlords looking to ensure consistent cash flow.
The data signature for ZIP 14621 reads as stable. Despite the high percentage of renters and the income disparity, the relatively high median home value indicates a steady demand for housing in the area. The presence of a robust Section 8 program helps maintain a stable rental market, providing a safety net for both tenants and landlords. Investors should consider the balance between accepting lower rents through the voucher program and the benefits of a stable tenant base when evaluating opportunities in this ZIP code.
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.