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 | $1,040 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,790 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,134 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,581 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,710 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,400 | $243,492 | 0.57% | F |
| 3BR | $1,790 | $303,431 | 0.59% | F |
| 4BR | $1,840 | $438,207 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 17547, located in Marietta, PA, presents a unique balance between yield and stability for real estate investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,190, while the market rent stands at $1,242. This indicates a slightly higher potential rental income above the FMR, which can be beneficial for maximizing returns. However, the median home value of $309,645 suggests that the initial investment cost is relatively high compared to other areas.
The rental market in this area shows a moderate level of stability. Renters make up 31.1% of the population, indicating a decent demand for rental properties but not an overwhelming one. The average household income is $92,199, which supports the ability of residents to pay the market rent. Unfortunately, the data does not provide the number of days on the market (DOM), which would have been useful for assessing how quickly properties can be rented out.
Given these factors, ZIP 17547 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability market. The slight premium over the FMR and the solid median income suggest that tenants will likely be able to afford the rent, ensuring a stable cash flow. However, the high median home value implies that the capital expenditure for acquiring properties is significant, reducing the overall yield relative to the investment cost. This makes it less suitable for quick-flip strategies and more appropriate for long-term, buy-and-hold investors seeking consistent, reliable returns.
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.