Location: Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | Metro: Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD MSA
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 | $1,910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,040 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,150 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,500 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,060 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,547 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,911 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,157 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $3,150 | $550,180 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $3,500 | $701,174 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 20778 stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With only 2,211 residents, it has an exceptionally low rental rate at 0.0%, indicating that almost all homes are owner-occupied. The median household income is notably high at $205,974, while the median home value is even higher at $653,975. This suggests a community where homeownership is both prevalent and financially feasible.
Moving into the specifics of Section 8 housing economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 20778 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,650. However, the lack of rental properties means there is no established market rent to compare against. In such a scenario, landlords should be aware that the demand for Section 8 vouchers is likely minimal, given the absence of renters in the area.
The data signature for ZIP 20778 reads as stable. The high median income and home values indicate a secure financial environment where homeowners are less likely to need government assistance for housing. This stability can be beneficial for long-term investments but may limit opportunities for those looking to capitalize on short-term fluctuations or rental market growth.
For small-portfolio investors considering the area, it's important to recognize that the investment landscape is heavily skewed towards homeownership rather than rentals. Therefore, any strategy involving Section 8 vouchers would need to be carefully aligned with the realities of the local housing market.
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.