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 | $1,330 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,440 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,050 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,622 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,937 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,172 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,331 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,440 | $183,348 | 0.79% | D |
| 2BR | $1,720 | $134,552 | 1.28% | A |
| 3BR | $2,050 | $129,975 | 1.58% | A+ |
| 4BR | $2,260 | $194,888 | 1.16% | B |
| 5BR | $2,622 | $556,065 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Philadelphia’s 19143 ZIP code, primarily covering the Cobbs Creek and parts of the Cedar Park neighborhood, offers a classic Philadelphia rowhouse experience with strong transit connectivity. This area is characterized by its walkable streets and proximity to major regional rails, making it attractive for commuters. A significant anchor for the local economy and potential tenant pool is the University of Pennsylvania Health System, located just east in University City, which employs thousands and supports surrounding residential stability.
From a cash-flow perspective, the arbitrage in 19143 is compelling. The FY2026 2-Bedroom FMR is set at $1,520, which significantly exceeds the current market rent (Zillow ZORI) of $1,406, creating a positive spread of $114 per month. While acquisition costs are moderate with a median home value of $145,658 and a median 2BR sale price of $130,377, investors should note the median days on market sits at 63 days. This indicates that while assets are affordable, liquidity is not immediate, so buy-and-hold strategies are preferable to flipping.
The tenant base here is substantial, with renter share at 53.3%. With a median household income of $43,244, many working families qualify for rental assistance, driving consistent voucher demand. Neighborhood amenities like Cobbs Creek Park provide recreational value, and the presence of highly-rated charter options adds appeal for families. Transit access via the Market-Frankford Line ensures that units remain desirable for workers commuting to Center City or the university hubs.
The Section 8 verdict for 19143 is strongly geared toward cash-flow stability. The $1,520 FMR provides a ceiling higher than current market rates, ensuring reliable payments that likely outpace standard leases. Given the affordable median entry price of $130,377 for a 2-bedroom unit, investors can achieve solid rental yields. The data suggests this is a market where securing a voucher contract creates an immediate income advantage over market-rate tenants.
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.