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 | $1,290 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,440 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,772 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,105 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,353 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,521 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,820 | $274,873 | 0.66% | D |
| 3BR | $2,190 | $352,194 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $2,390 | $454,784 | 0.53% | F |
| 5BR | $2,772 | $528,328 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Rochester, NY's ZIP code 14625 is situated in a neighborhood that is predominantly owner-occupied, with only 16.8% of residents being renters. The area boasts a median household income of $110,865, which is significantly higher than the national average. This affluence is reflected in the median home value, which stands at $366,686, indicating a relatively upscale residential environment.
The rental market in ZIP 14625 is particularly interesting when considering the Federal Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,500 for fiscal year 2024, compared to the actual market rent of $1,563 according to the Census American Community Survey (ACS). This suggests that the rental rates are slightly above the FMR, providing a modest premium for landlords who can secure Section 8 tenants.
Given these economic factors, ZIP 14625 is more suitable for hands-on value-add buyers rather than hands-off operators. The higher median income and home values indicate a stable economic base, but the limited number of renters means that competition for Section 8 tenants could be fierce. Landlords looking to maximize returns should consider improving their properties to meet the needs of both voucher holders and market-rate tenants, thereby increasing occupancy and rental income potential.
To summarize, the neighborhood in ZIP 14625 offers a mix of high-end living and a niche rental market that requires active management to succeed. The slight difference between the FMR and market rent presents an opportunity for landlords willing to engage in property improvements and tenant selection strategies.
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.