Location: Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, 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 | $1,330 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,540 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,860 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,912 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,261 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,522 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,698 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,860 | $307,913 | 0.6% | D |
| 3BR | $2,330 | $355,780 | 0.65% | D |
| 4BR | $2,510 | $602,703 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $2,912 | $840,582 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Hellertown, PA area, designated by ZIP code 18055, represents a moderate opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in attracting Section 8 tenants. With a population of 12,117, the rental market consists of 2,665 individuals, or 22.0% of the total population, who are currently renting. The median household income in this area is $90,234, which provides a benchmark for assessing the affordability of housing.
The average market rent in Hellertown stands at $1,397 per month. This figure equates to approximately 15.5% of the median household income, indicating that typical rents are relatively affordable compared to the local income levels. However, it's important to note the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, which is set at $1,530 for FY 2024, slightly higher than the current market rent. This suggests that while rents are manageable, they are approaching the upper limit of what is considered affordable under federal guidelines.
To further contextualize the rental landscape, consider that the FMR is used to determine payment standards for Section 8 vouchers. Given the $1,530 FMR, landlords can expect that Section 8 tenants will have a voucher amount close to this value. In Hellertown, the demand for vouchers is present but not overwhelming, due to the relatively low percentage of renters compared to homeowners. This implies that while there is a tenant pool available, it may be smaller and more selective than in areas with a higher proportion of renters.
A landlord in Hellertown should anticipate a tenant profile that includes individuals and families who benefit from Section 8 vouchers to supplement their housing costs. These tenants will likely be working professionals or families with modest incomes, seeking affordable housing options within a community that offers both rental and ownership opportunities. It's advisable for landlords to maintain properties that meet or exceed the quality and cost standards set by the FMR to ensure they remain competitive and attractive to potential Section 8 tenants.
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.