Location: Schuyler County, NY | Metro: Schuyler 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 | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,705 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,166 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,120 | $188,158 | 0.6% | F |
| 3BR | $1,370 | $215,560 | 0.64% | D |
| 4BR | $1,470 | $250,813 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A household in Montour Falls, NY, with a median income of $53,846, faces significant challenges in affording the market rate rent of $773. This figure represents a substantial portion of their annual earnings, making it difficult to sustain other living expenses.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,030 for fiscal year 2026, far exceeds the actual market rate. However, this standard payment amount under the Section 8 voucher program is still higher than what many local residents can pay out-of-pocket, given their income levels.
In a town with a population of 2,421 where 27.8% of residents are renters, the disparity between median income and rental costs creates a notable affordability gap. This gap means that landlords must be strategic in their rental pricing and tenant selection to ensure steady occupancy rates.
The high FMR compared to the market rate suggests that landlords could benefit from accepting Section 8 vouchers. This strategy would provide a more stable income stream, as voucher payments are consistent and government-backed, rather than relying on cash-paying tenants who might struggle with the market rate.
Landlords should consider the benefits of accepting vouchers, which include a guaranteed minimum payment and access to a larger pool of potential tenants. While the upfront work of participating in the voucher program may be more involved, the long-term stability and reduced vacancy risks make it a viable option.
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.