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 | $1,360 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,590 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,920 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,004 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,633 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,920 | $276,683 | 0.69% | D |
| 3BR | $2,410 | $334,605 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $2,590 | $432,381 | 0.6% | F |
| 5BR | $3,004 | $441,623 | 0.68% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1510 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 18052 in Whitehall, PA, for fiscal year 2024, indicating the maximum amount that a Section 8 voucher holder can pay towards their rent. 1693 represents the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), which is the average market rent in the area, showing that properties priced at the FMR level are below the market average. 335,082 is the median home value in Whitehall, suggesting a moderate property value range where investment opportunities exist. 37.4 is the percentage of the population that rents, highlighting a significant portion of the market that could be interested in Section 8 housing. 75,665 is the median income, which is crucial for understanding the financial capacity of potential tenants in the area. 7 days is the average time it takes for a rental listing to find a tenant, demonstrating a quick turnover rate in the local rental market. 0.2 is the percentage of listings that have been price-cut, indicating a stable rental market with little need for aggressive pricing adjustments.
The disparity between the FMR at $1510 and the market rent at $1693 suggests landlords can participate in the Section 8 program while still maintaining a competitive edge in the rental market. The relatively low median income of $75,665 supports the necessity for affordable housing solutions like Section 8. With a 37.4% renter share, there is a substantial demand for rental properties, making the Section 8 program a viable option for filling vacancies quickly. The rapid 7-day DOM indicates that properties are likely to be rented out swiftly once listed, reducing vacancy periods and increasing cash flow predictability.
Given these figures, the verdict on participating in the Section 8 program for ZIP 18052 is positive, as it aligns well with the local rental market dynamics and offers a steady stream of tenants.
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.