Location: Northumberland County, PA | Metro: Northumberland County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 17730 encompasses the small town of Watsontown, located in central Pennsylvania. The neighborhood offers a tranquil residential setting with low traffic noise and a serene ambiance. Despite the peaceful environment, the available demographic data presents some challenges for analysis. The population stands at 11,000, but there is no specific percentage for renters, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. Median income and median home value data are currently unavailable, which suggests limited financial transparency regarding the economic status of residents and homeowners.
Transitioning into the economic aspect of renting, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 17730 is set at $990 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the government's estimate for the metro area's rental costs, which is higher than the typical market rent in the area, though exact market rent figures are also not available. This discrepancy implies that Section 8 vouchers could potentially cover a significant portion of the rental cost in the region, making it an attractive option for tenants seeking affordable housing solutions.
Given the lack of detailed market rent data and the relatively high FMR compared to what might be expected in such a small town, ZIP code 17730 seems better suited for a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The absence of robust financial metrics makes it difficult to identify opportunities for substantial investment or renovation. Instead, landlords who can provide quality housing at or below the FMR will likely benefit from the Section 8 program, ensuring steady occupancy without the need for aggressive management practices.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.