Location: Northumberland County, PA | Metro: Columbia County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $950 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,860 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,158 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,417 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,741 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 17824, located within Northumberland County, PA, presents a unique profile when compared against typical ZIP codes in the same county. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1060 for the fiscal year 2024, 17824 offers a clear indication of affordability for renters. However, the lack of available market rent data suggests that rental activity might be less prevalent here compared to other areas, possibly due to lower overall population density or higher homeownership rates.
The median home value in ZIP 17824 stands at $269,181, which places it slightly above the average home values seen in many rural Pennsylvania ZIP codes but still relatively modest compared to urban centers. This figure implies that while property ownership is feasible, it does not come at an exorbitant cost, maintaining a balance between affordability and value.
A notable characteristic of 17824 is its 9.5% renter share. This percentage is indicative of a predominantly owner-occupied community, with a smaller segment of the population renting. In the context of Section 8 analysis, a lower renter share can mean fewer potential tenants for landlords, though it also suggests stability and a lower likelihood of transient populations.
To determine if 17824 is a value pocket, a mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market, we must consider the interplay between its FMR, home values, and renter share. Given the FMR of $1060, which is likely set to ensure affordability for low-income families, and the median home value of $269,181, it appears that 17824 is positioned as a mid-tier neighborhood. It offers reasonable property values without being excessively expensive, balancing the needs of both homeowners and renters.
The divergence worth noting is the relatively high renter share in comparison to the home values. While the renter share is not exceptionally high, it does suggest that there is a segment of the population who might benefit from rental assistance programs like Section 8. This combination of factors could indicate that 17824 has the potential to become a sweet spot for landlords participating in Section 8, given the affordability of rents and the presence of a stable, albeit smaller, rental market.
In summary, ZIP code 17824 in Northumberland County, PA, represents a mid-tier neighborhood within its metro, offering a mix of affordable rents and moderate home values. Its 9.5% renter share, while not extremely high, aligns with its FMR and could make it an attractive location for landlords looking to engage with the Section 8 program.
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.