Location: Mifflin County, PA | Metro: Huntingdon County, PA
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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $111,580 | 0.93% | C |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $135,459 | 1.05% | B |
| 4BR | $1,650 | $144,223 | 1.14% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
126,052 is the median home value in ZIP 17066 (Mount Union, PA), indicating a relatively modest property market. 33.9% represents the proportion of renters in the area, a figure that suggests a significant portion of the population is looking for affordable housing options. $682 is the average market rent based on Census ACS data, which is notably lower than the $1,050 Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for the metro area in fiscal year 2026. This discrepancy highlights the potential for landlords to receive higher rents through the Section 8 program compared to the general rental market.
$50,765 is the median income for residents in this ZIP code, providing insight into the financial capacity of local tenants. While this income level is not exceptionally high, it aligns well with the $682 market rent, suggesting that many residents can afford standard rental costs but might struggle with the higher FMR rates. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares indicates stability in the housing market, without significant fluctuations or prolonged periods where properties remain unsold or unrented.
The $1,050 FMR is a critical benchmark for landlords considering participation in the Section 8 program. It ensures that they can cover their costs and potentially make a profit, even if the local market rent is lower at $682. Given the 33.9% renter share and the alignment between median income ($50,765) and market rent, landlords in Mount Union, PA, can expect a steady stream of tenants who qualify for the Section 8 program. Moreover, the absence of volatile market conditions, as indicated by the N/A figures for DOM and price-cut shares, supports a stable investment environment.
Overall, the data points towards a favorable climate for landlords participating in the Section 8 program. The gap between the FMR and market rent provides an incentive for landlords, while the modest median home value and income levels suggest a need for affordable housing options among local residents. Landlords can confidently offer properties at the FMR rate, knowing that the demand for subsidized housing is likely to be met. Verdict: Section 8 is a viable option for landlords in ZIP 17066.
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.