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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $3,310 | $403,316 | 0.82% | C |
| 2BR | $3,660 | $666,963 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $4,660 | $1,177,893 | 0.4% | F |
| 4BR | $5,490 | $1,512,376 | 0.36% | F |
| 5BR | $6,368 | $2,152,888 | 0.3% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $3070 for ZIP 22201 in Arlington, VA, for fiscal year 2024, landlords can expect a benchmark for rental pricing that aligns with federal standards. The Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI) stands at $2,712, indicating a slightly lower market rate compared to the FMR, which could suggest opportunities for competitive pricing adjustments. In this area, the median home value is $703,487, reflecting a robust housing market where property values remain high. With a renter share of 67.6%, it's evident that a significant portion of the population prefers leasing over owning, making rental properties particularly attractive. The median income of $145,000 provides insight into the economic stability of potential tenants, supporting the likelihood of timely rent payments. A Days on Market (DOM) figure of 21 days signals a brisk rental market, where properties are quickly occupied, reducing vacancy periods. The price-cut share of just 0.1% further underscores the strong demand, suggesting that landlords need not lower their asking prices significantly to attract tenants. Given these metrics, investing in Section 8 properties in Arlington, VA, appears highly favorable, as the program can help stabilize occupancy rates and provide a steady income stream without the need for extensive marketing efforts.
Section 8 verdict: Arlington, VA, offers a stable and lucrative environment for Section 8 investments, with high demand and minimal need for price adjustments.
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.