Location: Ithaca, NY | Metro: Binghamton, 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 | $1,140 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,320 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,749 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,325 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,491 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,580 | $191,354 | 0.83% | C |
| 3BR | $1,900 | $230,251 | 0.83% | C |
| 4BR | $2,370 | $264,233 | 0.9% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 14883, encompassing Spencer, NY, presents a dynamic rental market influenced by Federal Market Rent (FMR) and actual market conditions. The FMR for ZIP 14883 stands at $1340 for fiscal year 2024, indicating a benchmark set by federal guidelines. However, the Census American Community Survey (ACS) reports a lower market rent of $997. This discrepancy suggests that the local rental market may be less expensive than what federal standards dictate, possibly due to regional economic factors.
The median home value in ZIP 14883 is $208,171, which reflects the overall cost of homeownership in the area. While specific percentages for price-cut shares and days on market (DOM) are not available, the lower market rent compared to FMR implies that there might be an oversupply of rental units relative to demand. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this when setting rents or planning new developments.
A noteworthy statistic is the 22.4% share of renters in the area. This figure is relatively low, suggesting that homeownership is still a significant part of the housing landscape in Spencer, NY. Despite this, the persistent gap between FMR and market rent indicates a potential long-term pressure on the rental market. As the population grows or shifts towards renting, the dynamics could change, affecting both rental prices and the desirability of owning versus renting.
In summary, ZIP 14883 is characterized by a rental market that operates below federal benchmarks, potentially indicating an oversupply of rental properties. The relatively low renter share suggests that homeownership remains prevalent, but it also points to a market that could evolve as demographic trends shift. For investors, understanding these dynamics is crucial for making informed decisions about property investments and management strategies.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.