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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,210 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,297 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,779 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,918 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,480 | $333,937 | 0.44% | F |
| 3BR | $1,880 | $413,537 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $1,980 | $579,889 | 0.34% | F |
| 5BR | $2,297 | $679,230 | 0.34% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
New Tripoli, located in ZIP code 18066, is a predominantly owner-occupied neighborhood with a total population of 6,102 residents. Only 13.8% of the households in this area are renters, indicating a strong preference for homeownership among its inhabitants. The economic profile of New Tripoli is robust, with a median household income of $109,115, which places it well above the national average. This high income level supports a median home value of $445,632, reflecting the overall prosperity and desirability of the area.
The rental market in New Tripoli is modest compared to the broader housing market. According to the Census American Community Survey (ACS), the average market rent is $1,141 per month. However, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 vouchers in ZIP code 18066 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,260. This means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can potentially receive slightly higher rents than the current market rate, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their rental income.
Given the low percentage of renters and the relatively high median income, New Tripoli is likely better suited for a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The demand for rental properties is limited, and the majority of residents are capable of purchasing homes outright. Therefore, landlords who choose to participate in the Section 8 program can expect steady, government-backed rental income without the need for extensive property management or improvements. This approach aligns well with the conservative investment strategy favored by many small-portfolio investors and landlords in areas where the rental market is not highly competitive.
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.