Location: Talbot County, MD | Metro: Talbot 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 | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,290 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,807 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,396 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,566 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,010 | $385,266 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $2,420 | $534,230 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 21673 stands out within the county due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 2,843 residents, it has a rental rate of 24.9%, which is slightly above the national average. The median income for households in this area is $68,194, indicating a middle-class community. The median home value is notably high at $424,667, suggesting a relatively affluent neighborhood compared to other areas in the county.
Moving into the specifics of Section 8 housing economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 21673 is set at $1,440 for fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can receive through the Section 8 program for a unit in this ZIP code. In contrast, the current market rent, according to the Census ACS, is $1,338. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive a higher rent per unit than the current market rate, which could be an attractive proposition for property owners looking to stabilize their rental income.
Based on the data signature of ZIP 21673, it reads as a stable area. The relatively high median income and median home value suggest a solid economic foundation. Additionally, the slight premium offered by the Section 8 program over the market rent indicates that there is demand for affordable housing in this area without compromising the financial health of landlords. Small-portfolio investors and landlords should consider the long-term benefits of participating in the Section 8 program in ZIP 21673, as it aligns well with the local economic conditions and provides a reliable source of income.
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.