Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 19711 - 2027

Investment Score for ZIP 19711

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$1,470
1 Bedroom	$1,590
2 Bedrooms	$1,900
3 Bedrooms	$2,260
4 Bedrooms	$2,500
5 Bedrooms	$2,900
6 Bedrooms	$3,248
7 Bedrooms	$3,508
8 Bedrooms	$3,683

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
1BR	$1,590	$204,134	0.78%	D
2BR	$1,900	$266,043	0.71%	D
3BR	$2,260	$353,127	0.64%	D
4BR	$2,500	$520,280	0.48%	F
5BR	$2,900	$630,882	0.46%	F

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

### Market Analysis for ZIP Code 19711 (Newark, PA) #### Section 8 Voucher Dynamics The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 19711 is set by HUD for 2026 and ranges from $1410 for a zero-bedroom unit to $2450 for a four-bedroom unit. The most relevant figure for typical families seeking housing assistance is the 2BR FMR of $1830. This amount represents 23.0% of the median household income in Newark, which stands at $95,403. However, actual rents in the area significantly exceed these figures. According to Zillow, the median price for a two-bedroom rental property is $261,443, which translates to a monthly rent of approximately $2178. This is higher than the FMR of $1830, indicating that voucher holders face constraints in finding affordable units. The price-to-FMR ratio of 11.9x suggests that actual rental prices are much higher than the FMR, making it challenging for Section 8 tenants to find suitable housing without additional subsidies. #### Affordability & Renter Profile The population of ZIP code 19711 is 49,432, with 35.5% of residents being renters. Given the occupancy rate of 91.7%, the market appears to be relatively tight, with limited availability of rental properties. The median household income of $95,403 indicates that Newark is a middle to upper-middle-class area, where many residents can afford higher rents. However, the 35.5% renter population includes a mix of individuals and families who may struggle to pay market rates, particularly those relying on Section 8 vouchers. The fact that 2BR units cost nearly $2178 per month while the FMR is only $1830 highlights the affordability gap. For voucher holders, this means they must either find units below the FMR or negotiate with landlords willing to accept lower payments, which could be difficult given the high demand and limited supply. #### Investor Angle From an investor perspective, the ZIP code 19711 presents a mixed picture. While the median rent for a 2BR unit is $2178, the FMR is $1830. This means that if an investor targets properties within the FMR range, they will likely be cash-flow negative due to the disparity between FMR and actual market rents. However, there might be opportunities to attract non-voucher tenants willing to pay market rates, especially considering the relatively affluent nature of the area. The investment grade would depend on the ability to secure tenants paying closer to the actual market rates rather than the FMR. Investors should also consider the potential for negotiating with landlords to accept slightly below-market rates, which could make properties more attractive to voucher holders. #### Specific Actionable Insights 1. **Target Properties Below Market Rates**: Investors should focus on acquiring properties that are priced below the market median but still above the FMR. For example, a 2BR unit priced around $1900-$2000 would be more attractive to voucher holders and potentially offer a better chance of securing long-term tenants. 2. **Consider Multi-Family Units**: Given the higher FMRs for larger units (e.g., 3BR at $2190 and 4BR at $2450), multi-family units might present a better opportunity for cash flow. These units often have higher rental yields and can cater to larger families who are more likely to use Section 8 vouchers. 3. **Engage with Local Housing Authorities**: Building relationships with local housing authorities can provide insights into the number of available vouchers and the process for obtaining them. This can help investors understand the demand for subsidized housing and potentially secure more reliable tenant pipelines. #### Bottom Line For Section 8-focused investors, the ZIP code 19711 presents a challenging environment due to the significant gap between FMR and actual market rents. Given the tight market conditions and the high price-to-FMR ratio, the recommendation is to **Skip** this ZIP code unless investors can find properties priced significantly below market rates but still above the FMR. Alternatively, investors might consider other ZIP codes with a lower price-to-FMR ratio and more favorable conditions for cash flow and tenant acquisition.

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.