Location: Reading, 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 | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,204 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,468 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,665 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,798 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,130 | $245,829 | 0.46% | F |
| 2BR | $1,430 | $274,532 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $1,760 | $338,814 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,900 | $418,383 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $2,204 | $478,487 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 19512, encompassing Boyertown, PA, presents a dynamic rental market that reflects a balance between supply and demand, leaning slightly towards higher demand. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1320 for fiscal year 2024, indicating a level of affordability that is attractive to renters. In comparison, the market rent based on Census ACS data stands at $1,226, suggesting that landlords can potentially command rents close to the FMR without significant resistance from tenants.
The median home value of $331,559 places homeownership within reach for many residents, yet the substantial 26.8% renter share points to a persistent need for rental properties. This high percentage of renters implies ongoing housing pressure, as a significant portion of the population opts for renting over buying. Such a trend can be indicative of various factors, including young professionals, students, or families who prefer the flexibility and lower initial costs associated with renting.
The lack of data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) prevents a direct assessment of how aggressively landlords might be adjusting their rents or how quickly units are being filled. However, the relatively close alignment between the FMR and market rent suggests that there is no immediate need for landlords to reduce their asking prices significantly to attract tenants. This parity indicates a stable market condition where landlords can maintain their rents without excessive concessions.
In summary, the current snapshot of the Boyertown, PA market reveals a scenario where demand remains strong enough to support rental prices near the FMR. The high renter share suggests a long-term dynamic of housing pressure, which benefits landlords and small-portfolio investors looking for steady rental income. The absence of significant price-cutting activity and quick turnover times, though not quantified here, supports an interpretation of a market where supply meets but does not overwhelm demand, creating a favorable environment for property investment.
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.