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 | $1,360 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,470 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,100 | $471,413 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $2,310 | $608,688 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP code 18917 presents a dynamic scenario where the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 is set at $1650 for fiscal year 2024. This figure stands slightly above the current market rent of $1,418, based on Census American Community Survey data. The gap between FMR and market rent suggests that there is a modest upward pressure on rental prices, indicating that demand may be edging towards outpacing supply.
The median home value in the area is $472,136, which is a significant metric for understanding the overall housing market health. While we do not have specific data on price-cut shares or days on market (DOM) for rental properties, the higher FMR compared to the market rent implies that landlords participating in Section 8 could potentially command slightly higher rents than those in the open market, suggesting a slight advantage in terms of tenant stability and income predictability.
A notable 37.7% of the population in ZIP 18917 are renters. This high proportion of renters indicates sustained long-term housing pressure, as a larger percentage of residents rely on rental units rather than owning homes. Such a scenario often leads to a competitive rental market, with landlords maintaining occupancy rates and minimizing vacancy periods due to the consistent demand for rental properties.
In summary, ZIP 18917 appears to be a market where demand for affordable rentals is steady, supported by the Section 8 program's higher FMR. The significant median home value also points to a diverse housing market, with both rental and homeownership options available. However, the dominance of renters suggests a continuous need for rental units, likely keeping the market active and potentially favorable for landlords who can offer competitive rents while benefiting from the Section 8 subsidies.
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.