Location: Scranton--Wilkes-Barre, PA | Metro: Scranton--Wilkes-Barre, PA MSA
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 | $1,170 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,360 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,807 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,396 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,566 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,680 | $256,446 | 0.66% | D |
| 3BR | $2,200 | $330,839 | 0.66% | D |
| 4BR | $2,420 | $446,900 | 0.54% | F |
| 5BR | $2,807 | $576,414 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 18411, Clarks Summit, PA, reveals a clear opportunity for cashflow. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1220, while the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) stands at $1813, indicating that voucher tenants will cashflow at the FMR rate. This means that landlords can expect to cover their mortgage payments and maintenance costs while still generating a profit.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in the area, which is $324,481. The rent-to-price ratio, calculated by dividing the ZORI by the median home value, is approximately 0.56%. This low ratio suggests that the rental market is robust relative to the housing market, making it an attractive option for investors looking to capitalize on steady rental income.
The market also shows a strong tenant demand, evidenced by the N/A-day median Days on Market (DOM), indicating that properties are likely to be occupied quickly. Additionally, the 0.2% price-cut share suggests that landlords rarely need to reduce rents to attract tenants, further supporting the idea of stable and predictable cashflow.
In summary, the strongest investor angle in ZIP 18411 is cashflow, given the significant difference between the HUD FMR and the ZORI, along with the low rent-to-price ratio and minimal need for price reductions to secure tenants. This makes Clarks Summit an ideal location for Section 8 investors seeking consistent financial returns.
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.