Location: Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | Metro: Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 17080, located within the Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA MSA metro, serves as a strong cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This is due to the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the market rent levels for the area.
The FMR for ZIP 17080 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1110. In contrast, the current market rent stands at $640. This means that properties leased through Section 8 in this ZIP code can command rents nearly double the market rate, providing a substantial buffer against financial risks and ensuring steady cash flow. The higher FMR allows landlords to secure rental incomes that are well above what they would typically receive in the open market, making it an attractive option for those looking to stabilize their investment portfolio.
Additionally, the median home value in ZIP 17080 is $172,099. While this figure does not directly impact the cash flow from rental properties, it suggests that the area is relatively affordable, which can be beneficial for maintaining a stable tenant pool. Affordable housing values can attract a broader range of tenants who qualify for Section 8 assistance, further supporting the reliability of the cash flow.
The ZIP code also features a 14.4% renter share, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties. With a median income of $73,438, there is a sufficient economic base to support both the Section 8 program and general rental market activity. However, the primary focus for investors should remain on the cash-flow potential, given the favorable FMR-to-market rent ratio.
To summarize, ZIP 17080 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio. The ability to lease properties at rates significantly higher than the local market provides a reliable and robust source of income, making it an ideal choice for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking stability and predictable returns.
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.