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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,210 | $255,142 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $1,620 | $291,551 | 0.56% | F |
| 4BR | $1,670 | $391,366 | 0.43% | F |
| 5BR | $1,937 | $419,998 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A household in Red Lion, PA, with a median income of $86,561, can indeed afford the market rate rent of $1,461 (ZORI). However, it's important to note that this represents a significant portion of their annual income. To put it into perspective, the monthly market rent of $1,461 amounts to approximately $17,532 annually, which is nearly 20% of the median income.
The Housing Choice Voucher program, commonly known as Section 8, offers a different picture. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 17356 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,080. This means that if a landlord accepts a Section 8 voucher, they will receive a payment of $1,080 per month, significantly lower than the market rate but still a reliable source of income.
In Red Lion, with a population of 22,869 and 24.3% of residents being renters, there is a notable affordability gap between the market rate and the voucher payment standard. This gap suggests that landlords who accept vouchers might face less competition compared to those seeking market-rate tenants. Many potential renters may find the voucher amount more manageable given their income levels, leading to a higher demand for properties that accept Section 8.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to accept vouchers or aim for cash-paying tenants is clear. While market-rate rents provide higher income, the reliability and steady stream of income from vouchers, combined with potentially reduced competition for tenants, make accepting Section 8 vouchers a viable strategy. Landlords should weigh the benefits of guaranteed payments against the potential for higher rental income, considering the local economic conditions and tenant preferences.
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.