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 | $1,220 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,230 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,050 |
| 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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,500 | $240,195 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $2,050 | $336,591 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $2,510 | $415,036 | 0.6% | D |
| 5BR | $2,912 | $475,746 | 0.61% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 18353, which includes Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania, stands at $79,071. This figure provides a benchmark for assessing the financial capacity of households in the area to cover rental costs. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) indicates that the market rate for renting in this ZIP code is $1,330 per month. When juxtaposed against the median income, this market rate represents approximately 16.8% of annual income, which is within the generally recommended threshold of 30% for housing expenses.
However, the reality becomes more nuanced when considering the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,410 for the fiscal year 2024. This amount is slightly higher than the market rate, indicating that households earning the median income would find it challenging to pay the FMR without assistance. The difference between the market rate and the FMR suggests an affordability gap, where renters might struggle to meet the higher standard set by the voucher program.
Given that only 11.4% of the population in ZIP 18353 are renters, the competition among landlords is relatively low. With a total population of 10,953, the number of potential renters is approximately 1,252 individuals. This limited pool means that landlords have fewer prospective tenants to choose from, potentially impacting their ability to fill vacancies quickly.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to accept vouchers versus relying on cash-paying tenants is clear. While the FMR at $1,410 exceeds the market rate, it also aligns closely with the financial capabilities of the average household. Accepting vouchers can provide a steady stream of income and reduce vacancy rates, given the affordability challenges some renters face. However, landlords should be prepared for the administrative requirements and potential delays associated with the voucher process. For those who prefer to avoid these complexities, focusing on cash-paying tenants at the lower market rate of $1,330 could still prove profitable, especially considering the low competition in the rental market.
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.