Location: Salisbury, MD | Metro: Salisbury, MD HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,250 | $174,037 | 0.72% | D |
| 3BR | $1,640 | $282,291 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,650 | $384,996 | 0.43% | F |
| 5BR | $1,914 | $464,446 | 0.41% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 21801 in Salisbury, MD, stands out within Wicomico County due to its significant rental population and moderate housing values. With a total of 30,088 residents, 41.8% of whom rent their homes, this area has a notable demand for rental properties. The median income here is $71,313, which supports a decent standard of living but does not translate into high home ownership values, as evidenced by the median home value of $289,104.
The economic dynamics of Section 8 vouchers in ZIP 21801 are particularly interesting. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,140, while the market rent, as measured by ZORI, is $1,536. This discrepancy means that landlords can expect to receive less per unit through Section 8 than they might from market-rate tenants. However, the stability provided by government-backed vouchers can offset some of the financial risks associated with tenant turnover and unpaid rent.
The data signature for ZIP 21801 suggests a stable environment, characterized by a balanced mix of renters and homeowners, alongside a median income that aligns well with local living costs. While the rental market shows a preference for Section 8 vouchers over market rates, the overall economic indicators point towards a community that is unlikely to undergo rapid changes in the near future. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this ZIP code offers a predictable setting where long-term planning and investment can be pursued with confidence.
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.