Location: Reading, PA | Metro: Reading, PA MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,920 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,227 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,494 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,694 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,829 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 19544, located within the Reading, PA MSA, has an FMR of $1180 for fiscal year 2024. In contrast, the average market rent for a two-bedroom home in Reading is projected to be $1353 in fiscal year 2025, according to RentData.org. For fiscal year 2026, the Fair Market Rent for a one-bedroom unit in the Reading MSA is expected to be $1237, as noted by PlainRent.com.
Based on the available data, ZIP 19544's FMR is notably below the projected average market rent for the Reading MSA. This suggests that ZIP 19544 is a value pocket within the metro area, providing relatively affordable rental options compared to the broader market.
The absence of specific market rent and home value data for ZIP 19544 limits a complete comparison, but the low FMR indicates potential savings for tenants receiving Section 8 assistance. This makes it a potentially attractive location for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking to cater to this demographic.
Note the discrepancy in the renter share data, which is listed as 0.0%. This figure is likely inaccurate or missing. A typical Section 8 sweet spot would have a higher renter share coupled with below-average home values, indicating a concentration of subsidized housing units. Since the exact renter share and home values for ZIP 19544 are not provided, these specifics cannot be verified.
In conclusion, ZIP 19544 appears to be a value pocket within the Reading, PA MSA, given its below-average FMR. This positioning is advantageous for landlords and investors looking to offer affordable housing options.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.