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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,660 | $282,851 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $1,980 | $275,797 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $2,180 | $349,053 | 0.62% | D |
| 5BR | $2,529 | $380,771 | 0.66% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Philadelphia’s 19111 ZIP code, covering the Fox Chase and Burholme neighborhoods, offers a distinct suburban-in-the-city feel characterized by sprawling parks and established single-family homes. This area is anchored by major institutions like Jeanes Hospital and the expansive Fox Chase campus of Temple Health, which serve as stable employment hubs and contribute to the neighborhood’s reputation as a quiet, family-friendly alternative to the denser city center. The presence of large green spaces like Pennypack Park enhances the residential character, making it a desirable location for long-term tenants seeking connectivity to nature without leaving the city limits.
From a numbers perspective, the data reveals a tight but viable market. The FY2024 HUD SAFMR for a 2-bedroom unit sits at $1,520, while the current market rent (Zillow ZORI) trails slightly at $1,419, creating a modest $101 negative gap between subsidy and market rate. However, looking forward to the FY2026 Full FMR ladder, the 2BR rate rises to $1,610, potentially flipping the math in favor of investors. With a median home value of $293,955 and a median 2BR sale price of $279,096, entry costs are moderate compared to the broader metro. Properties move with reasonable liquidity, sitting on the market for a median of 41 days.
The tenant pool here is substantial, with 45.6% of households renting and a median household income of $61,138. This income level suggests that while many residents can afford market rates, a significant portion may still qualify for or seek housing assistance to manage costs. The neighborhood’s appeal is bolstered by access to the Fox Chase SEPTA regional rail line, providing direct transit to Center City, and highly-rated public schools within the Philadelphia School District. These amenities help sustain demand from families looking for stability and quality education, supporting consistent occupancy levels.
The Section 8 verdict for 19111 leans toward stability and long-term appreciation rather than aggressive immediate cash flow. While the current 2BR market rent is $101 below the HUD SAFMR, the anticipated increase to $1,610 in FY2026 suggests improving subsidy economics. The combination of institutional employers, transit access, and a high renter share creates a resilient environment for voucher holders. Investors should view this area as a defensive play, leveraging the $293,955 median home value to secure assets in a neighborhood that promises steady demand and modest appreciation over time.
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.