Location: Juniata County, PA | Metro: Juniata County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,868 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,259 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,372 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis for ZIP code 17082 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,030 for fiscal year 2026 and the actual market rent of $775, as reported by the Census ACS. This discrepancy amounts to a difference of $255, which represents an increase of approximately 33% over the market rent. Given that the FMR exceeds the market rent, this scenario presents a compelling opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors to leverage Section 8 vouchers as a means to achieve higher yields.
The rationale behind this yield play is straightforward: landlords can charge the higher FMR rate while still attracting tenants through the voucher program. In ZIP 17082, where 21.0% of residents are renters and the median home value stands at $223,106, the median income of $75,000 suggests that many local renters would struggle to afford market rents without assistance. The Section 8 program fills this need by subsidizing the difference between the market rent and the FMR, thereby ensuring that landlords receive the higher rent amount.
This dynamic benefits both the tenants and the landlords. For voucher holders, it means they can live in a neighborhood that might otherwise be out of reach financially. For landlords, it translates into a more stable rental income, as Section 8 participants are typically required to pay only 30% of their adjusted income toward rent, with the rest covered by the voucher. Therefore, even if the market rent is lower, the guaranteed payment structure of Section 8 ensures that landlords receive the full FMR of $1,030, enhancing their investment returns.
In conclusion, the gap between the FMR and market rent in ZIP 17082 makes it a prime location for Section 8 participation. Landlords should view this as a strategic move to improve their rental yields, while also providing affordable housing options to those who qualify for the voucher program.
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.