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 | $1,210 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,410 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,140 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,310 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,680 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,002 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,242 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,404 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,710 | $265,515 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $2,140 | $345,373 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $2,310 | $477,993 | 0.48% | F |
| 5BR | $2,680 | $500,374 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 18088, located in Walnutport, PA, stands out within Northampton County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 8,488 residents, only 12.2% rent their homes, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. The median household income of $82,083 is relatively high, suggesting a prosperous local economy. Additionally, the median home value of $347,807 reflects a stable housing market.
The voucher economics in ZIP 18088 are particularly noteworthy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,370 for fiscal year 2024, slightly exceeds the market rent of $1,331 reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive slightly above average rental rates compared to the local market, making it an attractive option for those looking to maintain steady cash flow.
The data signature for ZIP 18088 indicates a stable environment. High median incomes and home values suggest that the area is economically sound and that residents have the financial capacity to sustain homeownership. Furthermore, the slight premium in FMR over market rent provides a buffer for landlords, ensuring that they are adequately compensated for their properties. Given these factors, landlords and small-portfolio investors should find ZIP 18088 a reliable location for their investments.
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.