Location: Schuylkill County, PA | Metro: Schuylkill 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 | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,659 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,107 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,060 | $109,954 | 0.96% | C |
| 3BR | $1,380 | $155,622 | 0.89% | C |
| 4BR | $1,430 | $206,652 | 0.69% | D |
| 5BR | $1,659 | $161,849 | 1.03% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 17901 in Pottsville, PA, for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,040. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing assistance in the area. It's important to note that this does not mean you will receive $1,040 per month as rent; rather, it indicates the maximum amount that the Housing Choice Voucher program will pay toward a tenant's rent.
In comparison, the local Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI) stands at $1,225. This suggests that typical market rents are higher than the Section 8 payment standard, meaning landlords might need to subsidize the difference between the voucher payment and the total rent. However, given the strong demand for rental properties in the area, with renters making up 29.9% of the population, there is a good chance of finding tenants who qualify for the Section 8 program.
The median home value in Pottsville, PA, is around $153,000, which can be considered when thinking about the acquisition cost of a property for your first Section 8 rental. While the initial investment might seem significant, the steady income provided by the Section 8 program can offer financial security and predictability.
Before proceeding with a Section 8 rental, ensure you verify that the property meets all the necessary inspection requirements set by the local housing authority. These inspections are crucial as they determine whether the property is habitable and safe for tenants. They cover areas such as electrical systems, plumbing, heating, and overall cleanliness, among other things. Passing these inspections guarantees that you will be eligible to participate in the program and receive the guaranteed rental payments.
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.