Location: Wayne County, 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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,070 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,930 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,239 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,508 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,709 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,844 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,720 | $325,744 | 0.53% | F |
| 4BR | $1,930 | $428,359 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 18444 stands at $84,246, which positions it as a middle-income area. The market rate for rent, according to the Census ACS, is $1,059 per month. This amount represents approximately 15% of the median monthly income, assuming an even distribution throughout the year. While this percentage is within a reasonable range for housing costs, it still leaves a significant portion of income allocated towards rent.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by HUD for ZIP code 18444 in fiscal year 2024 is $1,070. This means that the voucher payment standard is slightly higher than the market rate, aligning closely with what landlords might expect to receive from voucher holders. However, the difference between the market rate and the FMR is minimal, indicating a tight alignment in rental pricing expectations.
With only 13.8% of the population being renters and a total population of 13,604, the rental market in ZIP 18444 is relatively small. This translates to a limited pool of potential tenants, increasing competition among landlords. The affordability gap suggests that many households in this area might find it challenging to cover the $1,059 market rate without assistance, making government-subsidized vouchers particularly attractive to renters.
Landlords should consider the dynamics of this market carefully. Given the high cost of living relative to income, the demand for subsidized housing is likely strong. Accepting Section 8 vouchers could be a strategic advantage in securing tenants, especially since the voucher payment standard is nearly equivalent to the market rate. Landlords who focus solely on cash-paying tenants might face challenges due to the smaller rental market and the financial strain many local households experience.
Takeaway: For landlords in ZIP 18444, accepting Section 8 vouchers offers a viable strategy to remain competitive and ensure consistent occupancy. The voucher payment standard is close to the market rate, providing a reliable income stream while catering to a demographic that struggles with housing costs.
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.