Location: Monroe County, PA | Metro: Monroe County, PA
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 | $1,140 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,150 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,714 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,283 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,447 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,510 | $226,046 | 0.67% | D |
| 3BR | $1,980 | $296,867 | 0.67% | D |
| 4BR | $2,340 | $387,932 | 0.6% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 18334, located in Long Pond, PA within the Monroe County, PA metro area, offers a strategic fit for a Section 8 portfolio focused on cash flow. This designation is based on the favorable spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,750 for FY 2024 and the current market rent of $1,113. The substantial difference of $637 per unit between what the government will reimburse and the actual market rent provides a significant cushion for landlords. This spread ensures that even if there are occasional delays in reimbursement, the financial stability of the property remains intact.
The median home value in ZIP 18334 stands at $327,808, which is relatively high for the region. However, the primary focus for Section 8 properties should be on rental income rather than property appreciation. In this case, the 0.1% price-cut share and the N/A-day days on market (DOM) indicate that while the housing market might be somewhat competitive, it does not significantly impact the ability to maintain steady rental income.
A key consideration for any investment strategy is the tenant mix. ZIP 18334 has a renter share of 12.5%, indicating that a portion of the population is already accustomed to renting. Additionally, the median income of $90,729 suggests that residents have the financial capacity to meet their obligations, including rent payments, even outside of the Section 8 program. However, given the specifics of the FMR and market rent, this ZIP code is best categorized as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio. Landlords can expect stable and predictable income from these units, which is crucial for managing a portfolio effectively.
To summarize, ZIP 18334 is an ideal candidate for a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio. The $637 spread between the FMR and market rent provides a solid financial buffer, ensuring that landlords receive above-market rates. While the median home value and other factors suggest potential for appreciation, the primary benefit here is the guaranteed income stream, making it a reliable choice for investors looking to stabilize their portfolios with consistent returns.
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.