Location: Lancaster, PA | Metro: Lancaster, 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 | $1,000 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,100 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,111 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,553 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,380 | $335,199 | 0.41% | F |
| 3BR | $1,790 | $387,158 | 0.46% | F |
| 4BR | $1,820 | $519,065 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 17538, located in Salunga, Pennsylvania, stands out within Lancaster County due to several unique characteristics. With a population of 7,314 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate at 13.5%, indicating that homeownership is predominant. The median household income is $86,719, which is higher than the national average, reflecting a prosperous community. The median home value in this ZIP is $439,981, suggesting that homes here are valued significantly above the county and state averages.
Moving to the specifics of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 17538 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,160. This figure is notably higher than the market rent estimated by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), which is $1,085. This discrepancy means that landlords can potentially charge slightly more for rental properties under Section 8 without exceeding the voucher limits, thus making the ZIP an attractive option for those willing to participate in the program.
The data signature for ZIP 17538 reads as stable. The high median income and home values indicate a settled community with little sign of significant demographic shifts. The low rental rate further supports this stability, as it suggests that many residents are long-term homeowners. However, the favorable economic conditions for Section 8 participation could be seen as a transitional element, particularly if more landlords choose to accept vouchers, potentially altering the local rental landscape.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.