Location: Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA | Metro: Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,160 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,350 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,060 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,564 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,872 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,102 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,257 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,060 | $437,496 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $2,210 | $642,590 | 0.34% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
19.4% of residents in ZIP code 18051 are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1610 for zip FY 2024, provides a benchmark for what landlords can charge to remain within federal guidelines for affordable housing. This figure is notably lower than the market rent, which stands at $1,987 (ZORI), suggesting that landlords participating in the Section 8 program might have to adjust their expectations slightly.
$533,047 is the median home value in ZIP 18051, reflecting a robust local economy where property values are strong. However, the median income of $139,506 indicates that while homeownership is feasible, it remains a considerable expense for many families. As such, the demand for affordable rental units is likely to be high, particularly those that offer stability through programs like Section 8.
N/A-day DOM and N/A% price-cut share suggest that there isn't enough data to provide insights into how long properties typically stay on the market or the frequency of price reductions. Despite this lack of detail, the overall economic indicators point towards a stable rental market, where Section 8 properties can serve a vital need for low-income families seeking safe and affordable housing.
The disparity between the FMR and ZORI figures highlights an opportunity for landlords who can leverage the Section 8 program to fill gaps in the rental market. By offering units at the subsidized rate of $1610, landlords can attract tenants who otherwise might struggle to afford the average market rent of $1,987.
$1610 FMR aligns closely with the financial needs of many families in ZIP 18051, making it a practical choice for both landlords and tenants. The program ensures that rents are kept at a level that is affordable for low-income households, while still providing landlords with a predictable and government-backed source of income.
A final consideration for landlords is the potential for reduced turnover and vacancy rates associated with Section 8 tenancy. Given the strong competition for rental properties in ZIP 18051, securing a steady stream of tenants through the Section 8 program can be advantageous.
$1610 FMR: A viable entry point for landlords looking to invest in ZIP 18051, balancing affordability with profitability.
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.