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 | $1,950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,280 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,760 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,460 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,327 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,846 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,234 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,496 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,760 | $316,505 | 0.87% | C |
| 3BR | $3,460 | $414,980 | 0.83% | C |
| 4BR | $3,730 | $632,294 | 0.59% | F |
| 5BR | $4,327 | $787,974 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 18069, located in Orefield, PA, is not heavily dominated by renters, with only 8.3% of the population being renters. This indicates that it is primarily a homeowner-dominated area. The total population of 8,515 residents suggests a relatively small market for rental properties, which could mean that the demand for Section 8 vouchers is limited.
The median household income in this ZIP code is $117,895, indicating a higher economic status compared to the national average. For context, the typical market rent for a property in this area is $2,156 per month. This represents approximately 22.5% of the median monthly income, assuming a consistent distribution of income throughout the year. This percentage is significant but not unmanageable for those with higher incomes.
When comparing the market rent to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD at $1,590 for FY 2024, there is a notable gap. The FMR is designed to reflect the 40th percentile of local rents, meaning that the market rent in 18069 exceeds this benchmark, potentially making it less attractive for tenants relying solely on vouchers.
A landlord in this ZIP code can expect a tenant profile that includes individuals and families who may have a mix of income sources, possibly supplemented by Section 8 vouchers. However, due to the high median income and the relatively low percentage of renters, these tenants will likely need to contribute additional funds beyond the voucher amount to cover the market rent. Landlords should be prepared to screen tenants carefully, given the limited availability of vouchers and the higher cost of living relative to the FMR.
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.