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 | $1,370 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,480 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,110 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,703 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,269 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,770 | $307,270 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $2,110 | $499,197 | 0.42% | F |
| 4BR | $2,330 | $632,737 | 0.37% | F |
| 5BR | $2,703 | $778,845 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 19083, Havertown, PA, reveals a competitive rental environment. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,670 for FY 2024, is slightly below the current market rent, which stands at $1,710 according to ZORI (Zillow Observed Rental Index).
Voucher tenants in this area will cashflow marginally, given that the FMR is just under the market rate. This means landlords can expect a small positive cash flow, but it will be tight and likely require efficient management to cover expenses and generate profit.
The median home value in ZIP 19083 is $530,731. To derive the rent-to-price ratio, we use the market rent of $1,710. This results in a ratio of approximately 3.2%, calculated by dividing the annual rent ($20,520) by the median home value ($530,731). A low rent-to-price ratio indicates that the area may favor homeownership over renting, which could impact the demand for rental properties.
The rental market in Havertown shows strong dynamics with a 5-day median Days on Market (DOM), indicating quick turnover. Additionally, the price-cut share of 0.2% suggests that rental prices are generally stable and not frequently discounted. These factors imply a robust rental market where landlords can expect steady occupancy rates.
The strongest investor angle in this market is stability. With a marginal cashflow and a low price-cut share, Havertown offers a reliable investment opportunity with predictable returns and minimal risk of vacancy or rent reduction.
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.