Location: York-Hanover, PA | Metro: York-Hanover, 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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,498 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,623 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,280 | $234,440 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $1,690 | $286,338 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $1,780 | $376,689 | 0.47% | F |
| 5BR | $2,065 | $440,604 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP 17315, Dover, PA, the Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1,140. This figure is notably lower than the market rent reported by the Census ACS, which stands at $1,260. As such, landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers in this area will experience marginal cash flow at the HUD FMR rate, as they would be renting units below the market price. However, with premium units or those in high-demand locations, it's possible to achieve better cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 17315 is $289,741. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio, which provides insight into the relative affordability of renting versus buying. In this case, the ratio is approximately 0.43%, suggesting that renting remains significantly cheaper compared to purchasing a home in the area. This dynamic supports the ongoing demand for rental properties among low-income households, including those utilizing Section 8 vouchers.
The housing market in Dover is characterized by a quick turnaround, with a median Days on Market (DOM) of just 8 days. Additionally, the share of listings that require a price cut is very low at 0.3%. These metrics indicate a stable rental market, where landlords can expect consistent occupancy rates and minimal need for vacancy discounts. The rapid turnover also suggests that there is a strong interest in the rental properties available in this ZIP code, which is beneficial for investors looking to maintain steady cash flow.
Given these factors, the strongest angle for Section 8 investors in ZIP 17315 is stability. With a robust demand for rental properties and a relatively low risk of vacancies, investors can rely on consistent income streams from their properties. While cash flow may be marginal at the HUD FMR rate, the stability of the market ensures long-term investment security.
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.