Location: Clinton County, PA | Metro: Clinton County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,868 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,259 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,372 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The situation in ZIP code 17778, with a median income of $56,250, presents significant challenges for renters trying to afford housing at the market rate. Unfortunately, the exact market rate is not available, but we can still analyze the affordability gap based on the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standards.
The FMR set at $970 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 serves as a benchmark for what is considered affordable for a household earning the median income. This means that a household in ZIP 17778 would be expected to pay no more than $970 per month for a standard unit under the voucher program.
With only 8.3% of the 74-person population identified as renters, competition among landlords is relatively low. However, this also implies a smaller pool of potential tenants who might rely on vouchers due to limited financial resources.
To put this into perspective, let's consider the cost of living. A household earning the median income of $56,250 would have an average monthly income of approximately $4,687.50. The $970 FMR represents about 21% of this monthly income, which is within the recommended range for housing costs, typically no more than 30% of gross income.
Landlords in ZIP 17778 must weigh the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers against the potential for cash-paying tenants. While cash payments might offer more immediate financial flexibility, the voucher program ensures a stable and government-backed source of income, albeit at a fixed rate. Given the small number of renters and the median income level, landlords should anticipate that many prospective tenants will need assistance through vouchers to meet their housing needs.
The takeaway for landlords is that while there may be fewer rental units needed, the demand for affordable housing supported by vouchers is likely high. Accepting Section 8 vouchers could be a strategic move to secure long-term tenancy and avoid vacancies in a market where the affordability gap is pronounced.
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.