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 | $1,520 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,640 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,993 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,352 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,620 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,801 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,640 | $212,077 | 0.77% | D |
| 2BR | $1,960 | $443,438 | 0.44% | F |
| 3BR | $2,340 | $563,044 | 0.42% | F |
| 4BR | $2,580 | $852,287 | 0.3% | F |
| 5BR | $2,993 | $1,120,365 | 0.27% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 19002, located in Ambler, Pennsylvania, stands out within Montgomery County due to its unique demographic and economic profile. With a population of 32,128 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate at 21.0%, indicating that most residents own their homes. The median household income in this ZIP is $143,600, reflecting a prosperous community. Home values are also high, with a median home value of $701,888, suggesting strong property appreciation and a robust local real estate market.
The voucher economics in ZIP 19002 present an interesting opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,790 for the fiscal year 2024, is notably lower than the market rent, which is measured at $2,008 using ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index). This discrepancy means that landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers can still achieve a competitive rental rate compared to the broader market, while also providing affordable housing options to eligible tenants.
Based on the data signature, ZIP 19002 appears to be a stable area. The high median income and home values indicate a mature, established community with little evidence of significant change. The modest rental rate further supports this stability, as it suggests that homeownership is the preferred living arrangement among residents. For investors, this stability offers a reliable environment for long-term investment strategies, particularly in properties that might benefit from the Section 8 program without sacrificing market competitiveness.
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.