Location: Northumberland County, PA | Metro: Northumberland County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 17872, located in a county with 8,894 residents, stands out due to several key characteristics that define its real estate landscape. With 33.1% of the population renting, it reflects a significant demand for rental properties. The median income in this area is $48,750, which is notably lower than the median home value of $60,342. This suggests that homeownership is less common among those with average incomes, further emphasizing the importance of rental properties.
When it comes to the economics of Section 8 vouchers, the data provides insight into the financial viability of accepting these vouchers for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, whereas the current market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $824. This indicates that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive slightly above the average market rent, making it a potentially attractive option for property owners looking to maximize their income streams.
The data signature for ZIP 17872 reads as stable. The relatively high percentage of renters and the gap between median income and home values suggest a steady demand for affordable housing options. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the economic benefits of participating in the Section 8 program, particularly given the slight premium over market rates. However, they should also be aware of the administrative requirements and potential challenges associated with managing Section 8 properties.
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.