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 | $2,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,260 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,500 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,190 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,350 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,872 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,262 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,525 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,500 | $533,441 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $3,190 | $691,734 | 0.46% | F |
| 4BR | $3,750 | $846,858 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $4,350 | $1,029,310 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 20180, Lovettsville, VA, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,070. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. It's important to note that this is not necessarily the rent you will receive; it's the cap on what can be charged.
In comparison, the average rent for the area, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS), is around $2,000. This indicates that the FMR is slightly higher than the typical market rate, which could potentially benefit landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The 4.7% renter share in Lovettsville suggests that there is a moderate demand for rental properties in the area. However, given the presence of the Section 8 program, there is likely a segment of the population looking for subsidized housing options. The FMR being above the local average could attract more renters who qualify for assistance.
If you're considering purchasing a property to use as a Section 8 rental, the median home value in the area is approximately $795,069. This figure gives you an idea of the acquisition cost for a property in Lovettsville. Before making a final decision, it's crucial to verify that the property meets the minimum standards required by the Section 8 program. These standards ensure that the property is safe, decent, and sanitary for tenants, and failing to meet these requirements could lead to disqualification.
To summarize, the FMR of $2,070 is your ceiling for rent charges under Section 8, slightly above the local average of $2,000. With a 4.7% renter share, demand is moderate but could be bolstered by those seeking assistance through Section 8. The acquisition cost of around $795,069 should factor into your investment calculations. Ensure the property meets all Section 8 standards before proceeding.
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.