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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,844 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,342 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,540 | $60,929 | 2.53% | A+ |
| 4BR | $1,590 | $73,453 | 2.16% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP code 17976 is in a state of equilibrium, with supply nearly matching demand. This inference is drawn from the snapshot of key metrics: the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,080 for fiscal year 2026, and the actual market rent reported at $1,024 based on Census ACS data. The slight discrepancy between the FMR and the market rent suggests that the rental market is stable, with rents neither significantly exceeding nor falling short of the government's benchmark.
The low price-cut share of 0.2% indicates that landlords are generally setting competitive prices without needing to reduce them to attract tenants. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it challenging to fully assess the balance between supply and demand in the rental sector. In terms of homeownership, the median home value stands at $60,861, which could imply an affordable housing environment that supports both ownership and rental options.
A significant insight comes from the 24.8% renter share, indicating a substantial portion of the population opts for renting over owning. This high renter share suggests long-term housing pressure, as a considerable number of residents might find it difficult to transition into homeownership due to financial constraints or other reasons. It also implies a steady demand for rental properties, making ZIP 17976 attractive for landlords and small-portfolio investors who are looking to capitalize on a consistent tenant base.
Landlords should be aware of these dynamics and consider the following:
The snapshot of ZIP 17976 paints a picture of a market where rental demand is robust, supported by an affordable homeownership option. This dynamic creates a balanced ecosystem that benefits both landlords and small-portfolio investors, provided they maintain competitive pricing and property quality.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.