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 | $1,290 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,400 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,990 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,073 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,670 | $158,724 | 1.05% | B |
| 3BR | $1,990 | $179,098 | 1.11% | B |
| 4BR | $2,190 | $198,620 | 1.1% | B |
| 5BR | $2,540 | $230,681 | 1.1% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP code 19801 in Wilmington, DE, hinges on the balance between yield and stability. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,470 for fiscal year 2024, compared to the local market rate of $1,814, it suggests that there is room for landlords to potentially charge above the FMR, enhancing the yield. However, the median home value stands at $175,982, indicating a relatively affordable housing market where property investments might not fetch premium rents.
The stability of the area is evident from the fact that 69.4% of the population are renters. This high percentage of renters implies a consistent demand for rental properties, which can be beneficial for steady cash flow. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) does not provide insight into how quickly properties turn over, but the median household income of $52,810 suggests that while there is a reliable tenant pool, they might not have the disposable income to support significantly higher rents.
In summary, ZIP 19801 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. The high percentage of renters supports stability, ensuring a steady stream of income for landlords. While the potential to charge above the FMR exists, the relatively low median income means that landlords should set realistic expectations for rental yields. The median home value also points to a moderate investment climate where quick flips might not be as lucrative as long-term rental strategies.
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.