Location: Sussex County, DE | Metro: Sussex County, DE
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 | $1,300 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,923 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,536 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,713 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,700 | $661,694 | 0.26% | F |
| 3BR | $2,090 | $842,888 | 0.25% | F |
| 4BR | $2,520 | $1,162,346 | 0.22% | F |
| 5BR | $2,923 | $2,268,867 | 0.13% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
To classify ZIP code 19930, which encompasses Bethany Beach, DE, we must consider both yield and stability factors.
The yield in this area is driven by the Federal Market Rent (FMR) figures. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR is set at $1,500. This is higher than the market rent of $1,375, indicating a positive rental environment where landlords can potentially charge above the average market rate. However, the median home value stands at $918,166, which is notably high. This suggests that while rental yields are favorable, the capital investment required to enter the market is substantial. The higher FMR compared to the market rent signals a slightly elevated yield potential, but the high home values temper this optimism.
Stability in ZIP 19930 is influenced by several factors. The percentage of renters is only 2.2%, which is very low. This indicates that the majority of residents own their homes, suggesting a less dynamic rental market. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to assess how quickly properties can be rented out. Lastly, the median household income is $125,491, which is quite high and supports the ability of residents to pay higher rents, contributing to financial stability for landlords.
Given these specifics, ZIP 19930 leans towards a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability market. While the rental rates are favorable, the low percentage of renters and high home values suggest a slower-paced, more stable rental market. The high median income further supports the idea that tenants can afford higher rents, reducing the risk of default. Therefore, for landlords and small-portfolio investors, this area offers reliable cash flow but requires a significant initial investment.
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.