Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 18344 - 2027
Location: Monroe County, PA | Metro: Monroe County, PA
FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates
| Unit Size |
Monthly FMR |
| Studio | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,050 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,436 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,728 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,946 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,093 |
Demographics & Housing Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Median Household Income
$83,707
Housing Authorities Serving ZIP 18344
A skeptical investor might raise several concerns about investing in ZIP 18344 (Mount Pocono, PA), but let's address them with the available data.
- Will FMR $1,180 (FY 2024) cover the mortgage on a $241,645 home?: The mortgage payment for a home priced at $241,645 depends on the interest rate. As of the latest data, interest rates vary, but assuming a typical rate of around 4.5%, the monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $1,150. Therefore, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,180 would cover the mortgage payment, leaving a small buffer for maintenance and other expenses.
- Is there enough renter demand at 42.4%?: The renter occupancy rate of 42.4% suggests that nearly half of the housing units in Mount Pocono are rented. This figure is relatively low compared to urban areas but is not necessarily a concern. The two-bedroom rent prices in Mount Pocono are notably lower at $1,060 compared to the national average of $1,430. This indicates that the area is attractive to renters looking for affordable living, especially with the convenience of amenities and entertainment nearby.
- Will vouchers keep pace with $925 market rents?: While the exact pace of voucher increases is not specified in the data, it's important to note that the FMR for Mount Pocono is set at $1,180. If the Housing Choice Voucher program adjusts its payments to align with FMR, it should be sufficient to cover the market rent of $925. However, the data does not provide specific details on how quickly vouchers adjust to changes in the market. It is advisable to check with the local housing authority for the most up-to-date information regarding allowable rental rates under the voucher program.
The unemployment rate in Mount Pocono is 8.7%, higher than the US average of 6.0%. This could affect the ability of tenants to consistently pay rent. However, the predicted future job growth over the next ten years is 26.2%, which, although lower than the US average of 33.5%, still represents a positive trend.
Given these points, while there are some risks, the data suggests that Mount Pocono can be a viable investment opportunity for those willing to navigate the local economic conditions and tenant market dynamics.
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.