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 | $1,840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,140 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,740 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,230 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,747 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,197 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,533 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,760 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,740 | $691,151 | 0.4% | F |
| 4BR | $3,230 | $862,057 | 0.37% | F |
| 5BR | $3,747 | $1,138,243 | 0.33% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in ZIP code 20141 presents a nuanced picture for both landlords and small-portfolio investors. With a median home value of $863,334, the area is firmly positioned in the higher tier of the housing market. The fact that only 0.2% of listings have been reduced signals a strong seller's market, where pricing power remains robust. This indicates that property values are unlikely to decrease significantly in the near term, suggesting stability and potential for gradual appreciation.
The median days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A can be interpreted as a reflection of the quick turnover of properties in this ZIP code. In a competitive market like 20141, homes typically sell swiftly, often before reaching a point where DOM statistics become meaningful. This rapid absorption of inventory further supports the notion of a tight market, favorable for maintaining high property values.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 20141 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1550. However, the actual market rent, as indicated by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $3,200. This significant gap between government estimates and real-world rents suggests a highly desirable area with strong demand, driving up rental prices beyond typical expectations.
For long-term investors, the setup implies a solid foundation for capital appreciation. The high median home value coupled with low listing reductions and swift sales indicate an environment where property values are likely to remain stable and could appreciate gradually over the next 12-24 months. The disparity between FMR and ZORI also points towards a healthy rental market, providing steady income streams and potentially increasing rental yields as time progresses.
However, it is important to note that while the current indicators suggest positive trends, external factors such as economic shifts, policy changes, or market-specific events could influence future performance. Long-term investors should consider diversifying their portfolios and staying informed on broader economic conditions to mitigate risks.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.