Location: Schuylkill County, PA | Metro: Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,160 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,350 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,060 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,564 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,872 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,102 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,257 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,640 | $135,979 | 1.21% | A |
| 3BR | $2,060 | $157,858 | 1.3% | A |
| 4BR | $2,210 | $183,632 | 1.2% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 18250, Summit Hill, PA, is set at $1260 per month for the fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge a tenant who participates in the Section 8 program, which is designed to help low-income families afford housing. It's important to note that this is the payment standard and does not necessarily reflect the market rent you might charge non-Section 8 tenants.
Comparatively, the average market rent in Summit Hill, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS), is $1,279. This indicates that the FMR is slightly below the average market rent, meaning landlords could potentially earn more from non-Section 8 tenants. However, the stability and reliability of Section 8 payments make it an attractive option for some landlords.
The 18.5% share of renters in Summit Hill suggests there is a moderate demand for rental properties, including those under the Section 8 program. Given this percentage, you can expect that a portion of your potential tenants will be seeking assistance through Section 8.
In terms of acquiring a property, the median home value in Summit Hill is approximately $155,284. This is the price point around which you would find most homes for sale, but remember that the actual purchase price can vary depending on the condition and location of the property.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental, it is crucial to verify that the property meets all necessary inspection requirements. This includes ensuring it passes the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection, which checks for basic safety and habitability standards such as proper heating, plumbing, and electrical systems. Failure to meet these standards can result in the property being ineligible for the program, leading to financial losses.
In summary, while the FMR of $1260 may be slightly lower than the average market rent of $1,279, the consistent payment structure and moderate demand for rentals in Summit Hill make it a viable option for landlords. The median home value of $155,284 provides a benchmark for property acquisition costs, and ensuring your property meets HQS standards is essential for eligibility.
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.