Location: Schuylkill County, PA | Metro: Schuylkill County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,601 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,936 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,033 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 18220 in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, reveals a favorable environment for investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area is set at $970 for fiscal year 2026. This figure stands above the reported market rent of $875, based on Census ACS data, indicating that voucher tenants can cashflow at the FMR without requiring premium units.
Given the median home value is not available, we cannot calculate a precise rent-to-price ratio. However, the absence of a median home value suggests that the area may be predominantly rental-focused, which could stabilize demand for rental properties. The median Days on Market (DOM) and percentage of homes that experienced price cuts are also not applicable, reinforcing the idea that the housing market in this area is primarily rental-based.
Investors should focus on cashflow as the strongest angle in this market. The difference between the HUD FMR and the actual market rent provides a buffer that ensures positive cashflow from Section 8 voucher tenants. This scenario is particularly attractive for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking for consistent income without the need for high-end units.
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.