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 | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,950 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,080 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,703 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,919 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,065 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,440 | $286,655 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $1,950 | $321,616 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $2,080 | $429,990 | 0.48% | F |
| 5BR | $2,413 | $523,532 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 17340, which encompasses Littlestown, PA, stands at $90,030. This figure provides a baseline for assessing the affordability of housing in the area. The market rate for rent, according to Census ACS data, is $1,167 per month. Given the median income, a household would allocate approximately 16.7% of their annual income towards rent if they were paying the market rate.
However, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 17340 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,320. This represents a higher standard payment for those using housing vouchers, indicating that voucher recipients might have more purchasing power compared to the average renter paying market rates. The difference between the market rate and the voucher payment standard highlights an affordability gap where some households may struggle to pay the market rate without assistance.
With only 19.5% of the population being renters and a total population of 11,405, competition among landlords is likely to be moderate. However, the presence of voucher holders could significantly impact the rental market dynamics. Landlords who accept vouchers can attract tenants who can afford the higher FMR rate, thus securing more stable rental income.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear: accepting vouchers can provide a steady stream of income at a rate above the market average. While the immediate cash flow from market-rate tenants might seem appealing, the stability offered by voucher payments and the ability to tap into a segment of the market willing to pay $1,320 per month can be a strategic advantage in maintaining occupancy and financial health.
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.