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 | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,868 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,259 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,372 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,550 | $102,200 | 1.52% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A skeptical investor might question whether the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,100 for ZIP 17970 will sufficiently cover the mortgage on a home priced at $110,198. To address this, consider the average home price in ZIP 17970 is around $110,000, which aligns closely with the home in question. Assuming a standard 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at an interest rate of 4%, the monthly payment on a $110,198 home would be approximately $533. Thus, the FMR of $1,100 provides a substantial buffer above the mortgage payment.
The second objection concerns the renter demand, which stands at 26.5%. While this percentage might seem low, it's important to note that the overall affordability of the area, with a home-value-to-income ratio of 1.8, suggests that many residents can afford to own rather than rent. However, this does not negate the presence of renters; the demand exists but is relatively modest. For comparison, the national average renter occupancy rate is higher, indicating that ZIP 17970 has lower demand. Yet, the stability and predictability of the local market may still make it attractive for investors seeking consistent returns.
The final concern is whether housing vouchers will keep pace with market rents, which are estimated at $1,034. Vouchers are typically adjusted annually based on changes in the FMR. Given the recent trend of increasing home values in ZIP 17970, it's reasonable to expect that voucher amounts will also rise to reflect these changes. However, the exact adjustment figures are not available in the current data, leaving some uncertainty. It's advisable to monitor local HUD announcements for updates on voucher adjustments.
In conclusion, while there are valid concerns regarding the financial viability of investing in ZIP 17970, the data shows that the FMR provides adequate coverage for mortgage payments, and the modest renter demand is balanced by the area's affordability. Voucher adjustments remain uncertain but are likely to align with market trends.
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.