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 | $1,380 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,500 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,726 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,297 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,462 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,790 | $204,818 | 0.87% | C |
| 3BR | $2,130 | $210,017 | 1.01% | B |
| 4BR | $2,350 | $262,270 | 0.9% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 19153 in Philadelphia, PA, stands out due to its significant rental population and relatively high median home values compared to the median income. With a total of 13,018 residents, 47.7% of whom rent their homes, the area has a strong demand for housing. The median income in this ZIP is $55,213, while the median home value is notably higher at $218,985. This disparity suggests that homeownership is more expensive relative to earnings, making rental properties an attractive option for many.
In terms of voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 19153 is set at $1,770 for the fiscal year 2024. This figure is substantially above the average market rent of $1,389, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). Landlords and small-portfolio investors should note that accepting Section 8 vouchers can provide a stable source of income, as the government will cover the higher FMR rate rather than the lower market rent. This means that voucher holders can potentially afford more expensive units, which benefits property owners in this ZIP code.
Given the data signature, ZIP 19153 appears to be a stable market. The high median home value indicates a desire for homeownership, but the significant percentage of renters suggests that there is a robust and consistent demand for rental properties. The gap between the FMR and the market rent also supports the idea that Section 8 vouchers can be a reliable tool for maintaining occupancy rates and securing steady income for landlords.
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.