Location: Reading, PA | Metro: Lancaster, PA 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 | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,880 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,443 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,638 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,770 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,420 | $266,041 | 0.53% | F |
| 3BR | $1,790 | $309,819 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,880 | $465,204 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Robesonia, PA, located in ZIP code 19551, is a predominantly owner-occupied neighborhood with a total population of 4,778. Only 15.9% of the residents are renters, indicating a strong preference for homeownership among the local populace. The median household income in this area stands at $90,504, which is relatively high, suggesting a well-off community. This affluence is further reflected in the median home value of $329,180, illustrating the financial stability and property appreciation potential of the area.
The rent economics in Robesonia present an interesting opportunity for investors. According to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for ZIP code 19551 for fiscal year 2024, the FMR is $1,210. In contrast, the Census ACS reports the market rent at $1,079. This discrepancy between the FMR and market rent suggests a favorable environment for Section 8 investors, as they can potentially offer rents closer to the FMR while still being competitive in the local rental market.
Given the characteristics of Robesonia, it would likely appeal to both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For hands-off operators, the stable income levels and low percentage of renters indicate a reliable pool of tenants who are likely to meet the eligibility requirements for Section 8 vouchers. Meanwhile, hands-on value-add buyers could benefit from the gap between the FMR and market rent, positioning themselves to capture higher rental income as the market adjusts or as the demand for affordable housing increases.
In summary, Robesonia, PA, with its affluent community and moderate rental market, offers a solid foundation for Section 8 investments. The combination of high median incomes and the FMR exceeding market rent presents a scenario where investors can effectively manage properties with minimal risk, catering to either a passive or active investment strategy.
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.