Location: Snyder County, PA | Metro: Snyder County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 17861 reveals several key points that are crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors considering investment in this area.
First, regarding the rent math, it does not work favorably. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,000, which is the benchmark for rental prices in subsidized housing programs such as Section 8. However, the market rent is listed as N/A, indicating that there is insufficient data to determine if the FMR aligns with what tenants can afford or if it reflects the actual market rates. This discrepancy poses a risk for landlords who might struggle to attract tenants willing to pay the higher FMR rate.
Second, the acquisition affordability in ZIP 17861 is unclear due to the lack of specific data on median home values, days on market (DOM), and the percentage of homes that require price cuts. With these figures listed as N/A, it's difficult to assess whether purchasing properties here would be financially viable for investors looking to acquire assets at reasonable prices.
Third, there is a modest tenant demand in ZIP 17861. The population stands at 152, with 18.9% of residents being renters. This suggests that while the overall number of potential tenants is low, a significant portion of the local population is indeed seeking rental accommodation. However, the small size of the zip code means that any fluctuation in the number of available rentals could significantly impact the demand.
Verdict: Investment in ZIP 17861 presents challenges due to the limited data on market rents and property acquisition costs. The small population and moderate renter share indicate a niche market, but without concrete figures on market rents and home values, the feasibility of acquiring properties and achieving positive cash flow through Section 8 tenancy remains uncertain. Landlords and investors should proceed with caution and seek additional localized data before making any decisions.
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.