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 | $2,670 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,930 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $4,620 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $5,359 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $6,002 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $6,482 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $6,806 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $2,780 | $251,629 | 1.1% | B |
| 2BR | $3,080 | $353,945 | 0.87% | C |
| 3BR | $3,930 | $615,368 | 0.64% | D |
| 4BR | $4,620 | $807,740 | 0.57% | F |
| 5BR | $5,359 | $878,637 | 0.61% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 22152, located in Springfield, Virginia within Fairfax County, stands out due to its robust economic profile and unique housing dynamics. With a population of 28,814 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate of 14.2%, indicating that most residents own their homes. The median income in this area is $165,906, reflecting a higher-than-average earning capacity compared to many other regions. This is further underscored by the median home value of $697,887, which is significantly above the national average.
Turning to the voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 22152 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $2,650. In contrast, the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), which reflects actual market rents, is currently at $2,950. This discrepancy suggests that landlords participating in the Section 8 program could potentially face a shortfall if they rely solely on voucher payments to cover their rental costs. However, the strong local economy and high median incomes provide a solid foundation for landlords to consider supplementary measures to ensure profitability.
The data signature for ZIP 22152 reads as stable. The high median income and home values indicate a financially secure community where residents are likely to maintain steady employment and income levels. Additionally, the low rental rate implies that there is a strong owner-occupied presence, which typically contributes to stability in the real estate market. For small-portfolio investors and landlords, this ZIP code presents an opportunity to invest in a stable environment, though they should be aware of the potential challenges posed by the lower FMR compared to market rents.
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.