Location: Somerset 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 | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,150 | $164,722 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $1,510 | $241,844 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $1,510 | $312,973 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 21853, located in Princess Anne, MD, within the Somerset County, MD HUD Metro FMR Area, serves as a strong cash-flow anchor for any Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1110 for fiscal year 2024 and the current market rent of $1400. The difference of $290 per month ensures that landlords can secure a steady, reliable income stream even when tenants are covered under the Section 8 program.
Further reinforcing its role as a cash-flow anchor is the median home value of $224,262. This figure suggests that property values are relatively stable, which means that landlords can expect consistent rental income without the volatility often associated with rapidly appreciating markets. The stability in property values also reduces the risk of overpaying for properties, ensuring that investments in ZIP 21853 remain financially sound.
While the ZIP code does not present a significant opportunity for appreciation plays, with a modest 0.2% price-cut share and an average Days on Market (DOM) being N/A, it still offers solid potential as a diversifier due to the high renter share of 35.5%. This indicates a robust demand for rental properties, which can help stabilize a portfolio's occupancy rates and reduce vacancy risks.
The median income of $69,697 in the area supports the notion that there is a healthy economic base capable of sustaining rental prices. However, given the specific context of Section 8, the primary benefit remains in its role as a cash-flow anchor. Landlords can confidently invest in this ZIP code knowing that they will receive a dependable income source, thanks to the substantial gap between the FMR and market rents.
To summarize, ZIP 21853 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its financial metrics provide a clear advantage for generating consistent rental income, making it a valuable addition for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking stability and predictability in their investment 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.