Location: Kent County, MD | Metro: Kent 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 | $1,210 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,320 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,529 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,059 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,212 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,900 | $399,032 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 21635 is analyzed as a potential market for Section 8 tenants. With a population of 2,085 residents, 18.2% are renters, indicating a modest rental market presence. The median household income stands at $101,618, which is relatively high compared to the average market rent of $1,088. This means that typical rent consumes approximately 13.1% of the local income, calculated by dividing the market rent by the median income and multiplying by 100.
To put this into perspective, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,710. This figure represents the upper limit for housing costs under the Section 8 program, suggesting that properties priced at $1,088 are below the FMR threshold and thus more likely to be affordable for voucher holders. However, the discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent also implies that there might be limited demand for higher-priced units, particularly those close to the FMR level.
In terms of tenant profiles, landlords in ZIP 21635 can expect a mix of low-income families who qualify for Section 8 vouchers due to the high median income relative to the market rent. These tenants will typically have their rent subsidized up to $1,710, but given the lower market rents, they would likely have a smaller share of their income dedicated to rent, potentially allowing them to afford other expenses or amenities. Landlords should prepare for tenants who are financially stable enough to cover the difference between their voucher amount and the actual rent, though this may vary.
The analysis concludes that while 21635 has a rental market, it is not dominated by renters, and the income levels suggest that Section 8 tenants would represent a segment of the market rather than the majority. Given the specific dollar figures, landlords should position their properties to attract both voucher holders and non-voucher tenants, ensuring competitive pricing and quality to meet the needs of a diverse tenant base.
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.