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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,370 | $196,402 | 0.7% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
17929, with a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,030 for metro FY 2026, presents a significant opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. 17929's market rent at $929 according to Census ACS data, indicates a below-FMR rental environment, which can be advantageous for those looking to attract tenants eligible for Section 8 assistance. 17929 has a median home value of $184,471, reflecting a stable housing market that could support long-term investment strategies.
26.1% of the residents in 17929 are renters, suggesting a robust demand for rental properties. This high renter share aligns well with the Section 8 program, where a substantial portion of tenants rely on government subsidies to cover their rent. The median income of $73,424 in 17929 provides further context; it implies that many residents might find it challenging to afford market rents without assistance.
The absence of specific data regarding days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares does not necessarily indicate poor performance but rather a lack of comprehensive data for these metrics. However, given the below-FMR market rent and the high percentage of renters, it is reasonable to assume that rental properties in 17929 could be quickly occupied, reducing the risk of vacancy and associated costs.
In conclusion, 17929 offers a favorable environment for Section 8 investments due to its below-FMR market rent and high renter share. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect steady demand for rental units, making it a sound choice for those interested in leveraging the Section 8 program. Verdict: Suitable for Section 8 investments.
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.