Location: Northumberland County, PA | Metro: Northumberland County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,050 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,902 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,415 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 17857 in the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,110. This figure represents the payment standard under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, which means that if you participate in this program, the government will pay up to this amount per month to cover the rent for eligible tenants.
In contrast, the average rent for the same ZIP code based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data is $963. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the typical market rate, providing an incentive for landlords to join the Section 8 program as it can result in a slightly better income than the average local rent.
The demand for rental properties in ZIP 17857 is significant, with 22.5% of residents being renters. This high percentage suggests a robust market for rentals, particularly those affordable through the Section 8 program. The median home value in this area is around $204,557, which is the estimated price you would need to pay to acquire a property in this location. Given the FMR and the local rent average, participating in Section 8 can help ensure your property remains occupied and generates steady income.
Before deciding to enter the Section 8 market, it's crucial to verify that your property meets the required quality standards known as HUD's Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards ensure that the housing is safe, decent, and sanitary for tenants. Failure to meet these criteria could lead to delays in renting out your property and potential penalties.
Joining the Section 8 program in ZIP 17857 offers a reliable income stream, especially given the high renter share and the fact that the FMR exceeds the average local rent. With the payment standard set at $1,110, you can expect a consistent monthly income that is above the typical market rate, making it a sound investment decision for your portfolio.
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.