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 | $1,620 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,190 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,859 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,052 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,090 | $349,797 | 0.6% | F |
| 3BR | $2,490 | $489,160 | 0.51% | F |
| 4BR | $2,750 | $710,139 | 0.39% | F |
| 5BR | $3,190 | $1,007,945 | 0.32% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Ardmore, PA, located in ZIP code 19003, represents an excellent opportunity for small-portfolio investors and landlords seeking a cash-flow anchor within their Section 8 portfolio strategy. The area's Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2070, significantly lower than the market rent of $2563. This difference means that landlords can secure guaranteed rental income through Section 8 vouchers while still maintaining a positive cash flow, thanks to the $493 monthly spread. Additionally, Ardmore boasts a median home value of $524,630, which is relatively high compared to other areas in the Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD MSA.
The low price-cut share of 0.1% and the non-applicable day DOM (Days on Market) indicate that the housing market in Ardmore is stable and not prone to significant fluctuations. This stability further supports the cash-flow anchor designation, as it reduces the risk of having to drastically reduce rents to attract tenants or deal with prolonged vacancies.
While the 35.4% renter share and median income of $119,861 might suggest Ardmore could serve as a diversifier, the primary focus should be on its potential as a cash-flow anchor. The higher median income of residents suggests a strong local economy, which can contribute to the reliability of voucher payments and the overall financial health of the neighborhood. However, the high median home value and relatively high market rent indicate that Ardmore is not a typical diversifier where one might expect lower incomes or more volatile markets.
In conclusion, ZIP code 19003 in Ardmore, PA, is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its stable market conditions, favorable rent spreads, and solid economic indicators make it a reliable choice for generating consistent income without the risks associated with volatile markets or low-income areas.
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.