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 | $1,590 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,700 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,630 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,920 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,387 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,096 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,301 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,100 | $301,129 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $2,630 | $487,716 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,920 | $662,261 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $3,387 | $806,436 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Sykesville, MD, located in ZIP code 21784 within the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD MSA, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,970 for a one-bedroom unit, while the market rent stands slightly higher at $1,991. This minimal spread of just $21 between the FMR and market rent ensures that landlords can maintain steady cash flow without significant fluctuations.
The median home value in Sykesville is $559,040, which reflects a stable housing market. Despite the relatively high median home value, the low price-cut share of 0.2% indicates that property values are unlikely to depreciate rapidly. Furthermore, the days on market (DOM) average of 6 days suggests a brisk pace of sales, which can be beneficial for landlords looking to buy properties or exit the market quickly if needed.
A key factor in Sykesville's appeal as a cash-flow anchor is its median household income of $139,395. This robust income level supports a strong demand for rental properties, even those subsidized by Section 8 vouchers. The 12.7% renter share shows a significant portion of the population relies on rentals, ensuring a consistent pool of potential tenants.
In conclusion, Sykesville, MD, in ZIP code 21784, offers a secure and predictable environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking a cash-flow anchor within their Section 8 portfolio. The combination of stable rents, high median home values, low price-cut share, and strong local income levels makes it a reliable choice for generating steady returns.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.