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 | $1,790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,750 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,040 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,526 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,265 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,478 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,930 | $277,791 | 0.69% | D |
| 2BR | $2,310 | $365,679 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $2,750 | $522,450 | 0.53% | F |
| 4BR | $3,040 | $700,328 | 0.43% | F |
| 5BR | $3,526 | $792,193 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 18966, located in Churchville, PA, is part of the larger Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD MSA. To analyze its position within this metro area, we can compare its key figures to typical ZIP codes in the region.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 18966 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,040. This figure represents the maximum amount that a low-income household would pay for housing under the Section 8 program. The market rent for the same ZIP is slightly lower at $1,971. These numbers suggest that while rents in Churchville are above average for the entire MSA, they are still relatively accessible compared to the higher costs seen in urban centers.
The median home value in ZIP 18966 stands at $554,277. This is notably higher than many suburban areas but remains lower than the values found in some of the more affluent neighborhoods closer to the city center. This indicates that Churchville is positioned as a mid-tier neighborhood within the MSA, offering a balance between affordability and desirability.
The renter share in ZIP 18966 is 10.5%. This percentage is indicative of a predominantly owner-occupied area, which contrasts with the higher renter shares typically seen in urban cores. However, the combination of a slightly elevated FMR and a modest renter share suggests that Churchville is not a primary target for large-scale Section 8 housing programs. Instead, it offers opportunities for landlords and small-portfolio investors who are looking for a stable, middle-class rental market.
To further contextualize, let's consider the broader implications of these figures. The slight discrepancy between the FMR and market rent, along with the median home value, points to Churchville being a moderately priced area within its metro. It is neither a value pocket with significantly lower home values and rents nor a premium sub-market with extremely high home values and rents. Rather, it represents a balanced segment where both homeownership and rental properties coexist without extreme price pressures.
In summary, ZIP 18966 in Churchville, PA, is best described as a mid-tier neighborhood within the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD MSA. Its FMR, market rent, and home values reflect a middle ground that is attractive for moderate investment without the risks associated with highly volatile markets.
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.