Location: Wayne County, PA | Metro: Pike 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 | $1,040 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,140 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,656 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,213 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,374 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,370 | $198,058 | 0.69% | D |
| 3BR | $1,900 | $312,536 | 0.61% | D |
| 4BR | $2,290 | $423,460 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 18426, located in Greentown, PA, reveals a unique blend of yield and stability that positions it as a moderate opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
On the yield axis, the data points to a favorable scenario. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2024 stands at $1,420, which is notably higher than the market rent of $1,323. This suggests that properties receiving Section 8 subsidies can command a premium over the local market rates. However, the median home value of $281,167 indicates that the investment cost is relatively high, balancing out the potential rental income advantage.
Moving to the stability axis, the ZIP code presents a mixed picture. With only 12.9% of residents being renters, the area has a low rental demand, which could lead to challenges in tenant acquisition and retention. The lack of data on days on market (DOM) further complicates the assessment of how quickly properties might be leased. On a positive note, the average household income of $63,219 suggests that tenants who do rent in this area are likely to have stable financial backgrounds, potentially leading to fewer delinquencies and evictions.
In conclusion, ZIP code 18426 is neither a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market nor a steady-cashflow zone. Instead, it occupies a middle ground. The higher FMR compared to the market rent ($1,420 vs $1,323) offers a decent yield, but the low percentage of renters (12.9%) and the absence of DOM data imply less stability in terms of consistent occupancy. The median home value of $281,167 and the average income of $63,219 indicate that while the investment cost is significant, the potential for long-term, stable tenancy exists. For investors, this means a careful consideration of the balance between rental income and property value, alongside the challenge of attracting and maintaining tenants in an area with limited rental demand.
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.