Location: Gettysburg, PA | Metro: Gettysburg, 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 | $1,140 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,150 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,990 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,120 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,459 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,974 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,123 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,470 | $253,301 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,990 | $321,789 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $2,120 | $433,208 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 17304, located in Aspers, PA, within the Gettysburg, PA MSA metro area, serves as a strong cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This conclusion is based on the favorable financial metrics that support consistent rental income.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 17304 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1270. Comparatively, the market rent stands at $1,122, indicating that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect higher rents than the local market average. This spread ensures a positive cash flow, as the government subsidy covers the difference between the actual rent charged and what the tenant can afford based on their income.
Beyond the immediate cash flow benefits, the median home value in ZIP 17304 is $343,190. This figure suggests a stable housing market where property values are unlikely to plummet, offering landlords protection against capital depreciation. The high FMR relative to market rent also minimizes the risk of vacancy, as subsidized tenants typically have less flexibility to move if they lose their subsidy.
ZIP 17304 does not present itself as an appreciation play due to the lack of significant growth indicators such as price-cut shares or days on market (DOM). These metrics are not available, suggesting that while the area is stable, it does not offer rapid capital appreciation opportunities.
However, the ZIP code does offer some diversification benefits. With a renter share of 14.7%, there is a moderate demand for rental properties, ensuring a steady stream of potential tenants. Additionally, the median income of $84,885 indicates a financially capable population that can support various types of housing needs, including rental units.
In summary, ZIP 17304 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The higher FMR compared to the market rent ensures positive cash flows, while the stable median home value offers security against capital losses. Although it lacks significant appreciation potential, it provides reliable returns and a steady tenant base, making it a valuable component of any conservative investment approach.
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.