Location: Schuylkill County, PA | Metro: Schuylkill County, PA
| 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 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
15.5% of residents in ZIP 17974 are renters, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,040, which represents the maximum allowable rent for a Section 8 voucher holder. This figure is crucial for landlords considering participation in the program. Despite the lack of specific data on market rent and median home value, the median income of $111,488 provides insight into the economic status of the area's residents.
$1,040 is the threshold that landlords must not exceed when renting to Section 8 voucher holders, ensuring that they remain competitive with other subsidized housing options. Given the median income of $111,488, it is reasonable to assume that many residents may find it challenging to afford market-rate rents without assistance. Therefore, landlords who can offer affordable housing through the Section 8 program stand to benefit from a steady stream of tenants.
The absence of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares does not provide a complete picture of the local real estate market dynamics. However, the combination of the median income and the FMR suggests that there is a significant gap between what residents might be able to pay out-of-pocket and what the government deems as fair market value. This discrepancy underscores the importance of the Section 8 program in providing affordable housing options.
Participating in the Section 8 program can be a strategic move for landlords in ZIP 17974, given the moderate renter share and the economic context. It ensures a stable income stream tied to the $1,040 FMR while also serving a community need for affordable housing. The program's structure, based on verified income levels, reduces the risk of non-payment and offers a predictable financial framework.
Verdict: Landlords in ZIP 17974 should consider the Section 8 program as a viable option to attract tenants, given the economic conditions and the $1,040 FMR cap.
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.