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 | $1,530 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,600 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,086 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,456 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,732 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,919 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,600 | $146,150 | 1.09% | B |
| 2BR | $1,770 | $279,561 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $2,260 | $370,736 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $2,660 | $460,351 | 0.58% | F |
| 5BR | $3,086 | $519,576 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Washington, DC’s 20019 ZIP code, covering neighborhoods like Deanwood and Fort Dupont, offers a mix of residential quiet and potential, anchored by the presence of the US Census Bureau headquarters. This area is characterized by a strong sense of history and access to green spaces like the Anacostia River Trail, yet it faces typical urban challenges regarding crime and economic disparity. Recent development efforts aim to improve infrastructure and community services, making it a focal point for investors looking for emerging opportunities within the District.
From a financial perspective, the data reveals a stark disconnect between HUD rates and the private market. The FY2026 Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom unit is $1,610, significantly lagging behind the current market rent of $2,096. This creates a negative cash-flow gap of $486 per month if you rely solely on voucher payments. Properties are moving slowly here, with a median days on market of 109 days, and the median home value sits at $355,208. Investors must consider if the long-term hold outweighs the immediate monthly subsidy shortfall.
Demand fundamentals are robust, driven by a tenant base where 58.2% of households are renters and the median household income is $58,296. This income level is just below the area median, suggesting a strong natural fit for Housing Choice Voucher holders who need affordable options outside of the city’s premium core. The neighborhood’s connectivity via the Orange/Blue/Silver lines at nearby stations and the focus on revitalizing local retail corridors provide essential amenities that support tenant retention, despite the economic hurdles.
The Section 8 verdict for 20019 leans heavily toward an appreciation and stability play rather than immediate cash flow. The significant gap between the $2,096 market rent and the $1,610 voucher payment means this is not a "yield play" in the traditional sense. However, the comparatively low median home value of $355,208 and high renter share indicate potential for long-term asset growth as District-wide development pressures move eastward. Investors should enter this market with a long-term horizon, banking on neighborhood appreciation rather than monthly rental surpluses.
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.