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 | $2,750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,870 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,040 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,760 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $5,522 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $6,185 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $6,680 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $7,014 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,870 | $314,211 | 0.91% | C |
| 2BR | $3,170 | $496,382 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $4,040 | $706,998 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $4,760 | $1,004,666 | 0.47% | F |
| 5BR | $5,522 | $1,250,804 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Ashburn 20148 is a high-income suburban hub dominated by professional households and modern development. Located in Loudoun County, the area is characterized by master-planned communities and a strong corporate presence, with the Washington Dulles International Airport serving as a major economic engine. The neighborhood is known for low-density residential sprawl and high-quality public services, particularly its access to top-rated schools within the Loudoun County Public School system. This environment attracts families and long-term residents, creating a stable but competitive rental landscape.
From a data perspective, Ashburn 20148 presents significant valuation metrics. The HUD SAFMR for a 2-bedroom unit is $2,550, whereas current market rents sit at $3,008, leaving a $458 gap between voucher limits and actual market rates. The median home value is notably high at $886,932, with a median 2BR sale price of $498,769. Properties move relatively quickly, with a median days on market of 47 days. Given the $458 shortfall against the ZORI market rent, voucher tenants may not cover full market cash flow without supplemental income or adjustments.
The tenant pool is affluent, reflected in a median household income of $233,494, yet renters make up only 18.1% of households. This low renter share suggests limited voucher inventory but high demand for the few units available. The area’s primary draws include its proximity to major employment centers like Verizon and the extensive network of parks and recreational facilities. These amenities, combined with the school district's reputation, sustain demand from families who prioritize stability and community resources.
The strongest investor angle here is long-term appreciation and asset stability rather than immediate cash-flow via vouchers. With a median home value exceeding $886,000, the equity potential outweighs the $458 rent gap for Section 8 units. Investors should focus on maintaining high standards to attract the limited but high-income tenant base that values the neighborhood’s schools and transit connectivity.
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.