Location: Williamsport, PA | Metro: Williamsport, 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,833 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,217 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,328 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $208,945 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $1,430 | $287,659 | 0.5% | F |
| 4BR | $1,580 | $374,215 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
12.7% of residents in ZIP code 17728, Cogan Station, PA, are renters, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties. The $1030 Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for zip FY 2024 provides a benchmark for rental pricing, which is notably higher than the $802 average market rent reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey. This suggests that landlords can potentially charge above the market rate for quality rentals, capturing a premium in the local housing market. However, investors should be cautious; the $277,802 median home value signals a relatively high cost of entry for those looking to purchase property in the area. When considering the $77,165 median income, it becomes clear that affordability could be a concern for some potential tenants, although the disparity between the FMR and market rent indicates that there is a segment of the population willing to pay more for suitable housing.
The lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares suggests that the rental market dynamics in Cogan Station, PA, might not be as volatile as in other areas, but it also means we have limited insight into how quickly properties are rented out and if there is a need to adjust prices to attract tenants. Given the higher FMR compared to the market rent, landlords who offer properties that meet or exceed the standards set by HUD could command rents closer to the FMR, thereby increasing their revenue streams.
In conclusion, the data paints a picture of a rental market where quality matters, and landlords can leverage the higher FMR to their advantage. For small-portfolio investors, focusing on maintaining or upgrading properties to meet the HUD standards could prove lucrative. The $1030 FMR offers a clear target for rental pricing, while the $802 market rent highlights the current tenant expectations. With a median income of $77,165, there is a sufficient economic base to support higher rents, making Cogan Station, PA, a viable option for those interested in Section 8 properties.
Verdict: Suitable for Section 8 investment, given the favorable FMR and moderate rental demand.
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.