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 | $1,760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,050 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,538 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,963 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,280 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,494 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,590 | $546,209 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $3,050 | $829,552 | 0.37% | F |
| 5BR | $3,538 | $1,042,218 | 0.34% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 20882, located within the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD HUD Metro FMR Area, presents unique characteristics when compared to typical ZIP codes in this extensive metropolitan region. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 20882 is set at $2380 for fiscal year 2024, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $1,578. This suggests that properties in this ZIP are positioned above the local market average, indicating a premium sub-market status.
The median home value in 20882 stands at $802,874, reflecting a high-end residential area where property investments can command significant premiums. However, the renter share in this ZIP is relatively low at 3.7%, implying that it is predominantly an owner-occupied area rather than a rental hotspot. This low renter share contrasts with the high FMR, suggesting that while there might be opportunities for high-rental income, the overall rental market presence is limited.
To determine if 20882 represents a value pocket, a mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market within its larger metro context, consider the following:
Note the divergence between the high FMR and the lower market rent. This discrepancy indicates that while there is potential for high rental income, the actual market rents are significantly below the HUD's fair market assessment. For landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 housing, this could signal a sweet spot due to the high FMR relative to the actual market rent, allowing for better subsidies and potentially higher net incomes from rental properties.
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.