Location: Clearfield County, PA | Metro: Clearfield County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 16879, located in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, reveals several key points regarding its viability for Section 8 real-estate investments.
Regarding rent math, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $980. However, without specific data on market rent, it's challenging to definitively conclude if the rent math works in favor of Section 8. Typically, FMRs are designed to be reflective of market conditions, but the absence of precise market rent figures makes a direct comparison impossible.
On the issue of acquisition affordability, the lack of detailed information on the median home value, days on market (DOM), and percentage of homes that have undergone price reductions complicates the assessment. Landlords and investors need these metrics to gauge how competitive the housing market is and whether they can acquire properties at reasonable prices. Without these specifics, the affordability of acquisitions remains unclear.
Tenant demand is another critical factor. ZIP 16879 has a population of 406, with a renter share of 5.3%. This indicates a limited pool of potential tenants, suggesting that competition among landlords for Section 8 tenants could be high. Given the small number of renters, securing a steady stream of Section 8 occupants might prove challenging.
In conclusion, while the Fair Market Rent provides a benchmark for rental income, the lack of detailed market data hinders a comprehensive evaluation of acquisition affordability and tenant demand. The low population and modest renter share suggest that finding and retaining Section 8 tenants could be difficult, making this ZIP code less attractive for such investments. To make an informed decision, further research into local market conditions is essential.
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.