Location: Clinton County, PA | Metro: Clearfield County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 16871 reveals a unique balance between yield potential and market stability, making it an intriguing location for real estate investment, particularly for those interested in Section 8 properties.
On the yield axis, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, significantly higher than the market rent of $538. This disparity indicates a strong potential for rental income above the market rate, which can be leveraged through Section 8 housing programs. The absence of home value data suggests that single-family homes or other non-rental property types might not be as prevalent, focusing the investment opportunity on rental properties.
Moving to the stability axis, the ZIP code boasts a substantial 60.7% of residents who are renters, a key indicator of a robust demand for rental housing. While there is no data available for days on market (DOM), which could provide insight into how quickly properties are rented out, the median household income of $51,250 is noteworthy. This figure implies a stable economic base capable of supporting rental payments, especially when considering the FMR rates.
Given these figures, ZIP 16871 does not fit neatly into the high-yield/low-stability "flip-style" market category. Instead, it presents characteristics more aligned with a steady-cashflow zone. The significant gap between FMR and market rent provides a reliable source of above-market returns, while the high percentage of renters and moderate income levels suggest a consistent tenant pool.
However, the lack of DOM data means that while there appears to be a stable demand for rentals, the speed at which properties can be leased or re-leased remains uncertain. This uncertainty slightly tempers the classification towards a steady-cashflow zone but keeps it from being fully categorized as such.
In conclusion, for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to capitalize on Section 8 opportunities, ZIP 16871 offers a promising blend of yield and stability, driven by its high FMR relative to market rent and a sizable renter population. The income level supports sustainable cash flows, positioning this ZIP code as a solid choice for steady, reliable rental income.
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.