Location: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC | Metro: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-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 | $3,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,310 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,660 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,660 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $6,368 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $7,132 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $7,703 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $8,088 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $4,660 | $730,591 | 0.64% | D |
| 4BR | $5,490 | $851,701 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 22060, with a median household income of $105,605, presents an interesting scenario for both renters and landlords. The market rate for rent, known as ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index), stands at $2,252 per month. This figure is a direct reflection of the current rental landscape and indicates the average rent price for homes in the area.
In comparison, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD for fiscal year 2024 is $3,070. This higher figure represents the maximum amount that housing authorities will pay landlords on behalf of Section 8 voucher holders. It is important to note that the FMR is designed to cover a broader range of housing quality and sizes, which explains why it exceeds the market rate.
With 90.7% of the population renting and a total population of 10,641, there is a significant demand for rental properties in ZIP 22060. However, the affordability gap between the median income and the market rate rent is evident. A household earning the median income would spend approximately 42% of their monthly income on rent at the market rate, which is a substantial portion but still within the generally accepted guideline of spending no more than 30% to 40% of income on housing.
The disparity between the ZORI and the FMR suggests a competitive advantage for landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers. While cash-paying tenants might be able to afford the market rate, they are likely to find the FMR more attractive due to the financial support it provides. This means that landlords could potentially attract a larger pool of tenants by accepting vouchers, despite the lower immediate cash flow compared to market rates.
For landlords considering their strategy, the takeaway is clear: accepting Section 8 vouchers can be a viable option to remain competitive in a market where the majority of residents are renters. Although the FMR is higher than the ZORI, the guaranteed payments and reduced risk of non-payment make vouchers an appealing choice. Landlords should weigh the benefits of stability and tenant support against the potential for higher rents from cash-paying tenants.
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.