Location: Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | Metro: Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA MSA
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,705 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,166 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $900 | $201,568 | 0.45% | F |
| 2BR | $1,120 | $240,392 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $1,440 | $302,530 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $1,470 | $406,550 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 17032, which encompasses Halifax, PA, stands at $81,250. The market rate for rent, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), is $771 per month. This figure represents the typical cost a household might expect to pay for housing in the area. However, when comparing this to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set by the Housing Choice Voucher program for fiscal year 2024, which is $1,110, it becomes evident that there is a significant discrepancy.
In Halifax, only 15.2% of the total population of 7,551 are renters. This relatively low percentage suggests a smaller pool of potential tenants, which could impact competition among landlords. The affordability gap between the median income and the market rate versus the voucher payment standard highlights a challenge for both renters and landlords.
Renters with an income of $81,250 would find the market rate of $771 more manageable, but they would struggle to meet the higher FMR standard of $1,110 without financial assistance. For landlords, this means that accepting vouchers could provide a steady stream of rental income, albeit at a lower rate than the market might suggest. However, the higher voucher payment standard of $1,110 could attract tenants who otherwise might not be able to afford the area.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher vs. cash-pay strategies is clear: while cash-paying tenants might offer a slightly better immediate return on investment, given the market rate, the higher guaranteed payments through vouchers could mitigate risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancies. Moreover, the voucher system opens up the rental market to a broader range of potential tenants, including those who might have higher incomes but prefer the stability and benefits of subsidized housing. Landlords should weigh these factors carefully to decide on their rental strategy.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.