Location: McKean County, PA | Metro: McKean County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 16730 presents several challenges for potential Section 8 landlords and small-portfolio investors. One significant issue is tenant turnover, which can be higher due to the discrepancy between the market rent and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $980 for fiscal year 2026 in the metropolitan area. This gap can lead to dissatisfaction among tenants who may seek more affordable housing options, thereby increasing the frequency of turnover.
Vacancy exposure is another concern, though the exact days on market (DOM) is not available. High vacancy rates can occur if properties are not competitive or well-managed, leading to extended periods without rental income. Additionally, the lack of data on typical home values and median incomes suggests that there might be limited financial cushion for landlords to cover maintenance costs, which could be deferred if cash flow is tight. This deferred maintenance can result in higher repair bills down the line, impacting profitability.
However, these risks are somewhat mitigated by the high renter share in the area, which stands at 33.3%. A large proportion of renters typically indicates a strong demand for rental housing, including those using vouchers. This high demand can help ensure that vacancies are filled promptly, reducing the risk of prolonged vacancy periods.
In summary, the risks associated with Section 8 investments in ZIP 16730 include high tenant turnover, potential vacancy exposure, and the challenge of managing deferred maintenance costs. Despite these challenges, the robust renter base suggests a steady demand for rental units. The overall verdict for a first-time Section 8 landlord in this ZIP code is moderate risk.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.