Location: Schuylkill County, PA | Metro: Schuylkill County, PA
| 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 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for a Section 8 landlord investing in ZIP code 17972 in Schuylkill Haven, PA, include tenant turnover, vacancy exposure, and deferred maintenance issues. At a market rent of $920, compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $970 for fiscal year 2026 in the metro area, landlords might face challenges retaining tenants who qualify for Section 8 vouchers. The vacancy exposure is heightened due to the lack of available data on days on market (DOM), making it difficult to predict how quickly units can be filled. Additionally, with a typical home value of $235,210 and a median income of $68,558, there is a significant risk that properties may require substantial maintenance, which can be costly.
Despite these risks, the high concentration of renters in the area, representing 24.4% of the population, suggests strong demand for rental housing. This high renter share often translates into a robust pool of potential Section 8 tenants, ensuring that vacancies are less likely to occur over extended periods. The combination of a stable tenant base and the likelihood of consistent rental income makes the area attractive despite the initial concerns.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.