Location: Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA | Metro: Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD MSA
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 | $1,680 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,640 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,000 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,480 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,898 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,210 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,421 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,640 | $535,611 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $3,000 | $571,208 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 18915 in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD MSA reveals several key points. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 18915 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2610, which is significantly higher than the reported market rent of $1473 based on Census ACS data. This indicates that voucher tenants can generate positive cash flow at the FMR rate, making it an attractive option for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $533,476. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio. With a market rent of $1473, the ratio comes out to be approximately 0.28%. This suggests that rental income represents a small portion of the total property value, indicating that the primary benefit of investing in this area would likely come from appreciation rather than high rental yields.
The dynamics between renting and buying in ZIP 18915 are also noteworthy. While the median days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that have had their prices cut are not available, these metrics typically influence the decision-making process for investors. In this case, the significant gap between the HUD FMR and the actual market rent implies that landlords can expect to receive higher rents through voucher programs, thereby improving cash flow.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 18915 is appreciation. Given the high median home value and the potential for increased property values over time, investors should focus on the long-term growth prospects of their properties rather than short-term rental income. This makes ZIP 18915 a stable and potentially lucrative market for those looking to capitalize on rising property values while also benefiting from positive cash flow through Section 8 vouchers.
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.