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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,705 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,166 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $206,525 | 0.53% | F |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $270,929 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,470 | $390,180 | 0.38% | F |
| 5BR | $1,705 | $489,889 | 0.35% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 17961, Orwigsburg, PA, reveals a market that is moderately positioned between high yield and stability. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,020, which is higher than the local market rate of $953. This suggests that there is potential for higher rental yields if properties are priced closer to the FMR rather than the market rate.
A key indicator of stability in this market is the percentage of renters, which stands at 21.4%. While this figure is relatively low, it does imply a certain level of demand for rental properties. However, the lack of data regarding days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to assess the speed at which properties can be leased out. The median household income of $94,941 provides some insight into the financial capacity of residents to afford rent, although it is still below the home value of $280,379, indicating that homeownership might be less accessible for many residents, thus supporting rental demand.
To classify the market, we must consider both the yield potential and the stability factors. With an FMR above the market rate, there is a clear opportunity for landlords to achieve higher rental yields by setting their rents closer to the $1,020 mark. However, the lower renter percentage and the income level suggest that while there is demand, it may not be as robust as in areas with higher percentages of renters and higher incomes.
Therefore, ZIP 17961 is best classified as a steady-cashflow zone. Landlords can expect reasonable returns on investment without the risks associated with high turnover rates or rapid changes in market conditions. The rental income will likely provide consistent cash flow, though it may not be as high as in more volatile markets where yields are driven by short-term fluctuations in demand.
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.