Location: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC | Metro: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $3,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,160 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,490 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,240 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $6,078 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $6,807 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $7,352 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $7,720 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $3,160 | $344,013 | 0.92% | C |
| 2BR | $3,490 | $586,756 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $4,450 | $1,442,672 | 0.31% | F |
| 4BR | $5,240 | $1,882,379 | 0.28% | F |
| 5BR | $6,078 | $2,742,940 | 0.22% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 20008, located in Washington, DC, is part of the larger Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD HUD Metro FMR Area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 20008 is set at $2,730 for fiscal year 2024, which is higher than the typical market rent of $2,132. This indicates that the area is priced above average for rental properties within the metro region.
The median home value in ZIP 20008 stands at $841,539, which suggests it is a premium sub-market compared to the overall metro area. However, the renter share in this ZIP is 63.6%, significantly higher than the typical share in the broader metro area. This high proportion of renters, coupled with below-average home values relative to the premium status, can be indicative of a section 8 sweet spot.
To further clarify the positioning of ZIP 20008, we must consider the interplay between its FMR, market rent, home values, and renter share. While the FMR is above the typical market rent, the home values do not reflect an exceptionally high cost of ownership when compared to other premium areas within the metro. This could mean that 20008 offers a unique opportunity for landlords and investors looking to balance higher rents with potentially lower property acquisition costs.
In summary, ZIP 20008 appears to be a premium sub-market within the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD HUD Metro FMR Area, with a strong indication towards being a valuable location for those interested in Section 8 housing due to its high renter share and relatively moderate home values.
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.