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 | $1,310 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,420 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,220 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,575 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,115 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,271 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,690 | $254,149 | 0.66% | D |
| 3BR | $2,010 | $313,030 | 0.64% | D |
| 4BR | $2,220 | $360,275 | 0.62% | D |
| 5BR | $2,575 | $391,503 | 0.66% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 19703, Claymont, DE, reveals a moderate balance between yield and stability for real estate investments, particularly for those interested in Section 8 properties.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 2024 is set at $1,630, slightly above the local market rent of $1,621. This indicates that there is a modest potential for higher rental yields when compared to the broader market, but it's not significantly elevated to classify this as a high-yield area. The median home value of $320,258 provides a baseline for property acquisition costs, which should be considered alongside the FMR to gauge profitability.
Stability is influenced by the percentage of renters and the average income level of residents. In ZIP 19703, 45.3% of residents are renters, which suggests a healthy demand for rental properties. However, the lack of data on the number of days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to assess how quickly vacancies might be filled. The average household income of $76,939 supports the ability of tenants to meet their rent obligations, contributing positively to the stability of cash flow.
Given these factors, ZIP 19703 is best categorized as a steady-cashflow zone. While the yield is moderately positive due to the slight edge in FMR over market rent, the stability metrics suggest a reliable tenant base capable of consistent payments. The 45.3% rental rate ensures ongoing demand, and the median income level is sufficient to support rent payments without significant risk of default.
To summarize, the data points to a market where landlords can expect reasonable returns on investment with a low risk of vacancy or non-payment, making it a solid choice for those seeking stable, long-term rental income rather than high-risk, high-reward opportunities.
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.