Location: Dorchester County, MD | Metro: Dorchester County, MD
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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,920 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,227 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,494 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,694 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,829 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,150 | $216,188 | 0.53% | F |
| 3BR | $1,590 | $266,753 | 0.6% | F |
| 4BR | $1,920 | $351,848 | 0.55% | F |
| 5BR | $2,227 | $450,970 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rental landscape in ZIP code 21613, located in Cambridge, Maryland, presents a nuanced situation for both renters and landlords. The median household income stands at $53,890, which contrasts sharply with the market rate rent of $1,042. This discrepancy highlights an affordability gap that many households face when seeking housing.
To put this into perspective, let’s consider the Federal Market Rent (FMR) standards for the area. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR is set at $1,120. This means that even the market rate rent exceeds a significant portion of the median income, making it challenging for residents to find affordable housing without assistance.
In ZIP 21613, renters make up 48.4% of the population, with a total of 17,926 people. Given the high proportion of renters and the limited financial capacity of many households, competition among landlords is likely to be intense. Landlords who offer properties that qualify for Housing Choice Vouchers will have a competitive edge, as these vouchers can help bridge the affordability gap.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear. While cash-paying tenants might offer immediate financial benefits, the reality of the affordability gap suggests that accepting Housing Choice Vouchers could be a more sustainable approach. It not only helps attract tenants but also ensures a steady stream of income through government subsidies, reducing the risk of vacancies in a challenging market environment.
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.