Location: Northumberland County, PA | Metro: Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 17017 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1110. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, which is also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program. It's important to note that this is not the actual rent you'll receive; it's the benchmark used by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to determine what voucher holders can afford.
Comparatively, the average rent for ZIP code 17017, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS), is $739. This suggests that the FMR is significantly higher than the typical market rate, offering landlords a chance to receive above-average rents if they qualify for Section 8.
The rental share in this area is 21.1%, meaning that slightly over one-fifth of the households are renters. This indicates a steady demand for rental properties, particularly those affordable to low-income families. The median household income in the area is around $213,064, which is considerably higher than the income levels of most Section 8 tenants. This contrast highlights the potential financial benefits of participating in the Section 8 program, even though the property's value may not align directly with the local income levels.
To make an informed decision about your first Section 8 rental, ensure that the property meets all the necessary requirements set by HUD. This includes passing a housing quality standards (HQS) inspection and adhering to the rent limits established by the FMR. By verifying these criteria, you can avoid any complications that might arise during the application process or while managing the property.
Section 8 can be a lucrative option for landlords in ZIP code 17017, especially given the difference between the FMR and the local average rent. With a clear understanding of the payment standard and the steps needed to comply with HUD regulations, you can confidently proceed with adding a Section 8 rental to your portfolio.
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.