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 | $1,870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,030 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,880 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,689 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,132 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,463 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,686 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,030 | $176,215 | 1.15% | B |
| 2BR | $2,420 | $339,140 | 0.71% | D |
| 3BR | $2,880 | $606,957 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $3,180 | $1,154,363 | 0.28% | F |
| 5BR | $3,689 | $1,938,779 | 0.19% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for a Section 8 landlord in ZIP code 19010, located in Bryn Mawr, PA, are significant and must be carefully considered. First, there is a notable gap between the market rent of $2,513 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2024, which stands at $2,370. This discrepancy suggests that tenants may struggle to cover the higher market rents, leading to increased tenant turnover. High turnover rates can result in additional costs for landlords, including advertising, screening, and preparing units for new occupants.
Second, the vacancy exposure is a concern. With an average of only 7 days on the market before a property is rented, landlords might find themselves pressured to accept tenants quickly, potentially compromising thorough background checks and credit evaluations. This rapid occupancy rate increases the risk of accepting tenants who may not meet the financial stability criteria necessary for long-term tenancy.
Third, the deferred maintenance exposure is substantial. Given the typical home value of $907,896 and a median household income of $144,471, landlords should be prepared for the possibility that tenants may not have the financial capacity to maintain properties to the same standard as higher-income residents. This could lead to a greater need for repairs and maintenance, which would fall on the landlord to manage and fund.
However, these risks are balanced by the high renter share in the area. At 32.6%, there is a considerable population of renters, many of whom may rely on Section 8 vouchers due to the high cost of living relative to their income. This high density of potential voucher holders can provide a steady stream of qualified tenants, reducing the overall risk of vacancy and ensuring a consistent rental income.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.