Location: Worcester County, MD | Metro: Worcester 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 | $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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,500 | $289,194 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,730 | $336,864 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 21863, located within Worcester County, MD, presents an interesting profile when compared against typical ZIP codes in the same county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 21863 is set at $1,000 for fiscal year 2024, aligning closely with the market rent figure of $1,002. This suggests that rental properties in 21863 are priced fairly according to HUD standards.
The median home value in ZIP 21863 is $288,856, which is notably lower than the average home value in the broader Worcester County. This discrepancy indicates that 21863 could be considered a value pocket within the metro area, offering homeownership opportunities at a lower price point compared to other parts of the county.
A significant portion of the population in 21863 rents their homes, with a renter share of 28.8%. This percentage is higher than the average renter share for typical ZIP codes in Worcester County. The combination of a high renter share and below-average home values can signal a sweet spot for landlords and small-portfolio investors interested in Section 8 housing opportunities.
In summary, ZIP 21863 stands out as a value pocket within Worcester County, MD. It offers competitive rental prices that meet federal guidelines, a relatively high proportion of renters, and lower home values compared to the county average. These factors make it an attractive area for those looking to invest in Section 8 eligible properties.
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.