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 | $1,280 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,390 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,529 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,059 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,212 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,390 | $102,972 | 1.35% | A |
| 2BR | $1,660 | $171,425 | 0.97% | C |
| 3BR | $1,980 | $243,787 | 0.81% | C |
| 4BR | $2,180 | $312,871 | 0.7% | D |
| 5BR | $2,529 | $352,216 | 0.72% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Glenolden, PA, located in ZIP code 19036, is a residential neighborhood with a total population of 13,668. The area has a relatively low percentage of renters at 22.2%, indicating that it is predominantly a homeownership community. Despite this, the median household income stands at $79,144, suggesting a middle-class demographic with a strong purchasing power. The median home value in the area is $240,799, which reflects the overall stability and desirability of the housing market.
From an investment perspective, the rental market in Glenolden, PA, is worth examining. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, as set by HUD for fiscal year 2024, is $1,560. This figure represents the benchmark for rental rates in subsidized housing programs such as Section 8. In contrast, the market rent, as measured by Zillow's ZORI index, is slightly lower at $1,475. This indicates that the rental rates for Section 8 participants are above the market average, potentially offering a slight premium to landlords who participate in the program.
Given these economic factors, Glenolden, PA, is well-suited for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For hands-off operators, the stable median income and the fact that FMR exceeds market rent mean that there is a reliable tenant pool with predictable rental incomes. On the other hand, for hands-on value-add investors, the potential exists to renovate properties and command rents closer to the FMR, thereby increasing cash flow and property value. However, the relatively low percentage of renters suggests that the market may be more competitive, requiring careful consideration of property selection and management strategies.
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.