Location: York-Hanover, 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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,070 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,285 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,559 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,764 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,902 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,360 | $269,800 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $1,840 | $342,003 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $1,970 | $449,635 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis for Section 8 real estate investment in ZIP code 17372, centered around York Springs, PA, reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR is set at $1190, while the Census ACS data indicates a market rent of $1092. This means that the FMR is higher than the market rent by $98, or approximately 8.97%. This gap suggests that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can potentially achieve higher yields compared to those who rent properties at the current market rate.
In the context of York Springs, where only 13.4% of residents are renters, and the median home value stands at $345,849, it becomes evident that the rental market is relatively small. However, the median household income of $82,313 provides insight into the economic landscape, indicating that many residents might find it challenging to afford homeownership, thereby making them potential candidates for rental properties, especially those supported by Section 8 vouchers.
The higher FMR compared to the market rent means that voucher tenants can pay up to $1190 per month, which is above the typical rent of $1092. This difference allows landlords to earn a premium over the local market rate, making the acceptance of Section 8 vouchers a strategic move for maximizing rental income. Additionally, the stability provided by government-backed vouchers can ensure consistent cash flow, reducing the risk associated with tenant turnover and unpaid rent.
However, landlords must also consider the administrative costs and potential restrictions that come with accepting Section 8 vouchers. These include regular inspections, compliance with housing quality standards, and sometimes lower vacancy rates due to the limited pool of eligible tenants. Despite these considerations, the financial advantage of receiving rents at the FMR level, which exceeds the current market rent, makes it a compelling option for increasing property yields in York Springs, PA.
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.