Location: Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | Metro: Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,150 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,270 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,080 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,703 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,919 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,065 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP 17081 within the Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA MSA reveals several key points for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The rent math does not work favorably. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1310. However, the absence of specific market rent data makes it difficult to directly compare the two figures. This suggests that the actual market rent could be lower, depending on local conditions, which would mean that properties may struggle to meet the FMR without adjustments.
Regarding acquisition affordability, the lack of detailed data such as median home values, days on market (DOM), and percentage of homes needing price cuts poses a challenge. Without these metrics, it's hard to determine if buying properties in this area would be cost-effective for investors. This uncertainty can impact investment decisions and the overall financial strategy for acquiring new properties.
Tenant demand in ZIP 17081 is low. With only 248 residents and a 0.0% renter share, the pool of potential tenants is extremely limited. This indicates that finding and retaining tenants might be particularly challenging in this area, as the vast majority of the population likely owns their homes rather than renting.
In conclusion, ZIP 17081 presents significant challenges for real estate investment under the Section 8 program. The unclear market rent scenario, combined with the lack of comprehensive data on property acquisition costs and the exceptionally low tenant demand, suggests that this zip code is not an ideal location for Section 8 investments. Landlords and investors should consider these factors carefully before proceeding with any plans in this area.
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.