Location: Union County, PA | Metro: Union 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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,299 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,483 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,607 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,490 | $208,719 | 0.71% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 17886 in the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,040. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for a Section 8 rental unit in this area. It's important to note that this is the payment standard, not the total rent you can charge. The tenant will pay a portion of the rent based on their income, and the rest will be covered by the housing authority.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in ZIP 17886, according to the Census American Community Survey, is $695. This indicates that the FMR is significantly higher than the current market rate, which could make Section 8 rentals more attractive for landlords. With a renter share of 46.5%, there is a substantial demand for rental properties in this area, meaning your property is likely to be occupied.
The median home value in ZIP 17886 is around $199,167. If you're looking to acquire a property for your first Section 8 rental, this figure provides a benchmark for the cost of entry. Given the FMR and the existing rental rates, it's possible to find a balance between acquisition costs and potential rental income.
Before proceeding with a Section 8 rental in ZIP 17886, ensure that the property meets all the required inspection standards. Section 8 requires homes to pass a thorough inspection to meet Housing Quality Standards (HQS), which include safety, health, and structural criteria. This verification step is crucial to avoid delays in leasing and to maintain compliance with the program.
In summary, the FMR of $1,040 offers a stable income source compared to the average local rent of $695. With a high demand for rentals and an acquisition cost benchmarked at $199,167, Section 8 can be a viable option for landlords and small-portfolio investors in ZIP 17886. Ensure the property passes HQS inspections to secure your place in the program.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.