Location: Mifflin County, PA | Metro: Mifflin County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 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)
ZIP code 17029, located in Mifflin County, PA, serves as a strategic component within a Section 8 portfolio due to its characteristics as a cash-flow anchor. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, which is notably higher than the median home value of $158,614. This spread indicates that properties in this ZIP can be leased out under the Section 8 program at a rate that ensures positive cash flow.
The median income in ZIP 17029 is $76,080, reflecting a stable economic environment where tenants are likely to maintain consistent rental payments. With a renter share of 19.2%, there is a sufficient demand for rental properties, ensuring that vacancies remain low and the property stays occupied.
Defending the Cash-Flow Anchor Strategy:
The guaranteed rent through the Section 8 program aligns well with the FMR, providing landlords with steady, predictable income. Given the median home value, the rental income from Section 8 is likely to exceed mortgage payments and other operational costs, making it a reliable source of positive cash flow.
The stability of the local economy, indicated by the median income figure, suggests that tenants will have the means to comply with program requirements and pay their portion of the rent on time. This reduces the risk of default and delinquency, which are common concerns for landlords.
A lower percentage of renter share compared to some other areas might imply less competition among landlords for tenants. This can lead to fewer incentives offered to attract tenants, thereby preserving more of the rental income as pure profit.
In conclusion, ZIP 17029 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Its alignment with the FMR and stable tenant base ensures consistent, reliable income, which is crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to secure their financial footing in the real estate market.
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.