Location: Reading, PA | Metro: Reading, 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 | $980 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,120 | $104,393 | 1.07% | B |
| 2BR | $1,420 | $110,411 | 1.29% | A |
| 3BR | $1,750 | $135,159 | 1.29% | A |
| 4BR | $1,880 | $159,879 | 1.18% | B |
| 5BR | $2,181 | $184,655 | 1.18% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1110 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 19602 in Reading, PA, for fiscal year 2024, indicating the maximum amount Section 8 participants can pay for housing. 1273 is the actual market rent, or ZORI, showing that properties priced at or below the FMR offer competitive rates. 140948 represents the median home value in the area, which is significantly lower than many other metropolitan regions, making it an attractive market for real estate investment. 73.5% of the population are renters, demonstrating a strong demand for rental properties in Reading, PA. 34582 is the median income figure, suggesting that the majority of residents rely on affordable housing options such as Section 8. 24 days is the average Days on Market (DOM), reflecting a swift turnover rate for rental properties, which is beneficial for landlords looking to maintain occupancy. 0.2% is the price-cut share, indicating that rental prices in Reading, PA, are relatively stable and there's little need for landlords to reduce their asking rents. In conclusion, the data points towards a favorable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 properties, given the high renter share, competitive market rents, and low price volatility.
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.