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 | $1,290 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,400 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,990 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,073 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,670 | $246,624 | 0.68% | D |
| 3BR | $1,990 | $279,401 | 0.71% | D |
| 4BR | $2,190 | $421,852 | 0.52% | F |
| 5BR | $2,540 | $502,473 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Drexel Hill, PA, located in ZIP code 19026, stands out among other areas due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 32,725 residents, Drexel Hill has a rental rate of 34.9%, slightly above the national average. The median income in the area is $89,234, which is relatively high compared to many neighboring communities. Additionally, the median home value in Drexel Hill is $315,354, indicating a strong and stable housing market.
The voucher economics in Drexel Hill also present an interesting opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,620, while the market rent, as measured by the Zillow Rent Index (ZORI), is currently at $1,558. This suggests that properties rented through the Section 8 program can command a higher rent, potentially leading to increased revenue for landlords.
Given the data signature of Drexel Hill, it appears to be a stable area. The relatively high median income supports a robust local economy, and the close alignment between the FMR and ZORI indicates that the rental market is well-regulated and predictable. This stability is further reinforced by the high median home value, suggesting that the housing stock is maintained at a high standard and that homeownership is a significant factor in the community.
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.