Location: Union County, PA | Metro: Mifflin County, PA
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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,763 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,133 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,020 | $191,966 | 0.53% | F |
| 3BR | $1,320 | $259,337 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 17841, located in McClure, PA, presents a market in motion, characterized by a clear distinction between the Federal Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR, set at $1,040, reflects a higher rental benchmark compared to the Census-reported market rent of $750. This discrepancy suggests that while the government's estimate aims to cover a broad range of housing costs, the local market operates below this threshold, indicating potential room for rental price adjustments.
The median home value in ZIP 17841 stands at $207,760. This figure provides insight into the overall affordability of homeownership in the area. However, the significant percentage of renters—13.7%—highlights a substantial portion of the population that relies on the rental market. This statistic implies ongoing housing pressure, as a notable share of residents prefer or require renting over buying, which could be due to various factors including financial constraints or short-term living needs.
The absence of specific data regarding the percentage of price-cut shares and days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to definitively state whether supply outpaces demand or vice versa. Nonetheless, the lower market rent compared to the FMR suggests that landlords might face challenges in achieving rents at the federal level, indicating a possible surplus of rental units or a preference among tenants for lower-cost accommodations.
The dynamics of ZIP 17841 suggest a balanced yet evolving market. Landlords and small-portfolio investors must remain attentive to these shifts, particularly focusing on the relationship between FMR and market rent. Adjustments in pricing strategies and property management practices may be necessary to align with the local market conditions and tenant preferences.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.