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 | $1,150 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,250 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,547 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,751 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,889 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,490 | $166,194 | 0.9% | C |
| 3BR | $1,780 | $198,166 | 0.9% | C |
| 4BR | $1,960 | $219,959 | 0.89% | C |
| 5BR | $2,274 | $402,625 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 19151, located in Philadelphia, PA, reveals that the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for FY 2024 is $1,410. This figure is slightly below the market rent, which stands at $1,509 according to ZORI (Zillow's Observed Rent Index). Given this comparison, voucher tenants will typically generate marginal cash flow at the HUD FMR rate. To achieve positive cash flow, landlords should focus on premium units that can command higher rents.
The median home value in ZIP 19151 is $200,717. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio, which comes out to be approximately 0.75%. This ratio indicates that rental income represents a small portion of the overall property value, suggesting that investment returns through rental income alone might be limited.
The data also shows that the median days on market (DOM) is not applicable (N/A), and the share of listings making price cuts is 0.2%. These figures suggest a relatively stable market where homes are selling quickly, and there is little need for price adjustments. The low price-cut share implies strong demand for both rentals and home purchases, which could benefit investors looking to capitalize on either option.
In conclusion, while the primary focus for Section 8 investors should be on achieving positive cash flow, the strong demand and quick sales indicate that stability is the strongest angle for investors in ZIP 19151. This stability provides a reliable foundation for long-term investment 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.