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 | $1,380 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,170 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,517 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,819 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,045 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,197 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,650 | $180,163 | 0.92% | C |
| 3BR | $1,970 | $206,609 | 0.95% | C |
| 4BR | $2,170 | $251,527 | 0.86% | C |
| 5BR | $2,517 | $300,245 | 0.84% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1520 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 19135 in Philadelphia, PA, for fiscal year 2024. 1390 represents the market rent, known as the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), which is significantly lower than the FMR. The median home value in this area stands at 204841, indicating a moderate housing market. 36.8% is the portion of residents who are renters, reflecting a substantial demand for rental properties. With a median income of 53138, tenants in ZIP 19135 have a reasonable capacity to pay rent. The days on market (DOM) average is 33, suggesting that rental properties are typically occupied relatively quickly once listed. 0.2% is the share of homes that have been price-cut, indicating that sellers are generally not having to reduce their asking prices to attract buyers.
The disparity between the FMR and the ZORI highlights an opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. Attracting Section 8 tenants can be a stable and lucrative strategy, given the higher FMR set by the government. The low DOM figure suggests that there is little risk of vacancy, while the minimal price-cut share indicates a healthy seller's market for those looking to purchase investment properties.
For landlords, the 1520 FMR provides a benchmark for setting rents that align with government subsidies, ensuring steady cash flow. Small-portfolio investors should consider the 204841 median home value when evaluating property purchases, keeping in mind the potential for appreciation and rental income.
In conclusion, the data points towards a favorable environment for Section 8 participation, offering stability and a reliable tenant base. Verdict: ZIP 19135 is a strong candidate for Section 8 investments.
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.