Location: Worcester County, MD | Metro: Somerset County, 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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,428 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,549 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $160,410 | 0.67% | D |
| 3BR | $1,500 | $237,971 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $1,730 | $289,174 | 0.6% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
950 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 21851 in Pocomoke City, MD, for fiscal year 2024. 848 represents the actual market rent reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, indicating a slight premium landlords can command over the FMR. The median home value stands at 224,344, which is relatively stable compared to previous years. 35.3 percent of residents in this area are renters, suggesting a moderate demand for rental properties. 53,162 is the median income figure for the region, providing insight into the financial capacity of potential tenants. Despite the lack of available days on market (DOM) data, the 0.3 percent price-cut share indicates that homes in this area rarely need to be discounted, reflecting a healthy real estate market.
Investors considering Pocomoke City, MD, should note that the gap between the FMR and market rent suggests opportunities for modest profit margins without exceeding affordability thresholds. The median home value, while not exceptionally high, offers a reasonable investment base with potential for appreciation given the low price-cut share. However, the median income figure points to a necessity for maintaining rents close to the market rate to attract and retain tenants who qualify under Section 8 guidelines. The absence of DOM data makes it challenging to assess how quickly properties might turn over, but the low price-cut share implies that once priced correctly, homes will likely sell or lease without significant delays.
To conclude, Pocomoke City presents a balanced opportunity for real estate investors, especially those interested in Section 8 properties. With a manageable median income and a favorable market rent, the area supports both tenant stability and landlord profitability. The verdict for Section 8 investments in Pocomoke City, MD, is positive, provided that investors adhere to local rent regulations and maintain property standards.
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.