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 | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,902 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,415 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,250 | $214,494 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,610 | $300,052 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $1,640 | $467,496 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Marysville, PA, zip code 17053, is a modest-sized community with a total population of 5,067 residents. The area reflects a predominantly homeowner-focused environment, where only 11.4% of the population are renters. This suggests that the neighborhood is relatively stable, with a majority of long-term homeowners contributing to a sense of permanence and community investment.
The economic profile of Marysville is quite robust, with a median household income of $82,269. This figure indicates a higher-than-average earning potential among its residents, which can be beneficial for landlords and investors looking to secure tenants who are financially capable of meeting their obligations. Additionally, the median home value stands at $291,953, reflecting a solid real estate market that supports property appreciation over time.
Transitioning into the specifics of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for zip code 17053 is set at $1,150 for fiscal year 2024. In contrast, the actual market rent as per the Census ACS is $925. This discrepancy presents an opportunity for investors, as it means that properties receiving Section 8 vouchers could command higher rents compared to the local market average, potentially leading to increased profitability.
Given these conditions, Marysville, PA, is well-suited for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For hands-off operators, the higher FMR compared to market rent means they can rely on government subsidies to cover a significant portion of the rent without needing to actively manage the property beyond routine maintenance. On the other hand, value-add buyers can leverage the existing economic strength to improve properties and charge closer to the FMR rate, thereby maximizing returns.
In summary, Marysville, PA, offers a balanced mix of stability and financial opportunity for Section 8 investors. With a strong median income and home values, combined with favorable rent economics, both passive and active investors can find success in this neighborhood.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.