Location: Juniata County, PA | Metro: Juniata County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 17049 reveals a market that balances both yield and stability, making it an attractive option for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 stands at $1,120, significantly higher than the market rent of $639. This disparity indicates a potential for higher rental yields, especially if properties are managed to capture closer to the FMR.
However, the stability indicators suggest a more nuanced picture. With 28.8% of residents being renters, there is a notable but not overwhelming presence of tenants, which can contribute to steady cash flow. The median household income of $70,109 suggests that the local economy supports a reasonable level of financial security among residents, potentially leading to fewer delinquencies and evictions.
To quantify the yield potential, consider the median home value of $220,469. Assuming a typical mortgage rate of around 5%, the monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $1,100. Thus, even at the lower market rent of $639, the property would generate a negative cash flow. However, capturing the higher FMR could turn this into a positive cash flow scenario, especially when factoring in other income sources such as parking fees or laundry services.
The absence of data regarding days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to assess the volatility of the real estate transactions in this area. Nevertheless, the combination of moderate rental rates and a relatively high median home value points towards a market that leans more towards steady cash flow rather than high-yield, low-stability flipping opportunities.
In conclusion, ZIP 17049 offers a moderate rental yield opportunity, particularly if landlords can negotiate rents closer to the FMR. The stability of the rental population and the median income levels suggest a reliable tenant base, positioning this area as a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-risk, high-reward 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.