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 | $1,350 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,490 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,850 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,380 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,819 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,410 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,581 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,490 | $145,359 | 1.03% | B |
| 2BR | $1,850 | $221,622 | 0.83% | C |
| 3BR | $2,380 | $272,720 | 0.87% | C |
| 4BR | $2,430 | $380,432 | 0.64% | D |
| 5BR | $2,819 | $205,114 | 1.37% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 17110 in Harrisburg, PA, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,420. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, which is also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program. It's important to note that this is not the rent you will receive; it is the ceiling on the rent that can be charged to tenants who qualify for Section 8 assistance.
To provide context, the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), which measures average rental rates, stands at $1,454 in Harrisburg. This indicates that the FMR is slightly below the average market rate, suggesting that landlords participating in Section 8 might see a modest reduction in potential rental income compared to non-participating properties. However, the program offers stable and government-backed payments, which can be advantageous for landlords seeking consistent cash flow.
The rental share in Harrisburg is 41.6%, meaning that a significant portion of the population relies on renting their homes. This high percentage signals strong demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. Despite the slightly lower FMR, there is a good chance that your property will remain occupied due to the high number of renters in the area.
When acquiring a property for a Section 8 rental, the median home value in Harrisburg is approximately $264,535. This gives you an idea of the typical price range for homes in the area. While the initial investment might seem substantial, the long-term stability and occupancy rates associated with Section 8 can offset some of these costs.
Before proceeding with your first Section 8 rental, ensure that your property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards are set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and are designed to ensure that all Section 8 properties are safe, decent, and sanitary. A thorough inspection and any necessary repairs to meet HQS criteria will help you avoid delays and ensure compliance.
In summary, the FMR of $1,420 for ZIP 17110 provides a clear guideline for the maximum rent you can charge under the Section 8 program. With a local average rent of $1,454 and a high rental share of 41.6%, there is ample demand for rental properties in Harrisburg. The median home value of $264,535 helps frame the acquisition cost, and verifying that your property meets HQS standards is crucial before signing up for Section 8.
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.