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 | $1,340 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,430 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,854 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,196 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,452 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,625 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,770 | $292,557 | 0.61% | D |
| 3BR | $2,210 | $385,392 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,460 | $470,298 | 0.52% | F |
| 5BR | $2,854 | $496,280 | 0.58% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 21219, located in Edgemere, MD within the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD MSA, presents a unique profile compared to other ZIP codes in the area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 21219 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1930, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $1,264. This indicates that the government's estimate of what is considered fair rent is significantly above what the market is currently offering, suggesting an opportunity for landlords who can meet the quality standards required for Section 8 tenancy.
The median home value in ZIP 21219 stands at $387,377, which is lower than many ZIP codes within the larger Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD MSA. Given this, combined with the relatively low market rent, it suggests that 21219 could be considered a value pocket within the metro area. Landlords here might find their properties to be more affordable to Section 8 tenants while still benefiting from the higher FMR subsidy rates.
The renter share in ZIP 21219 is 10.8%, which is slightly below the national average but not necessarily indicative of the rental market dynamics within the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD MSA. However, the combination of a below-average renter share with a below-metro median home value and a much higher FMR does not directly signal a typical Section 8 sweet spot. Instead, it highlights a potentially stable rental market where landlords can receive higher subsidies without the usual high turnover associated with Section 8 tenancy.
In summary, ZIP 21219 appears to be a value pocket within the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD MSA, offering landlords a chance to participate in the Section 8 program with homes that are more affordable to tenants, while receiving higher rents due to the FMR. The lower market rent and median home value suggest a less competitive market for homeownership, making it easier for landlords to maintain occupancy with Section 8 tenants.
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.