Location: Wayne County, PA | Metro: Susquehanna 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,984 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,222 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,330 | $317,521 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in ZIP code 18470 is poised for stability and cautious optimism over the next 12 to 24 months, based on the current data points. The median home value stands at $299,020, indicating a balanced market where neither buyers nor sellers have overwhelming leverage. This figure suggests that the area has a solid foundation in terms of property values, which is crucial for long-term investment strategies.
The lack of percentage of listings being reduced and the median days on market (DOM) being unspecified signals a market that is not currently experiencing significant distress or rapid turnover. In such conditions, it's reasonable to expect that pricing power will remain relatively stable, barring any major economic shifts or localized events that could impact property values.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is projected to be $990, while the current market rate as per Census ACS is $1,006. This indicates that rental properties in ZIP 18470 are currently above the FMR, providing a slight cushion for landlords. However, the gap is not large enough to suggest a significant overvaluation of rental units, meaning there's room for minor adjustments without drastically impacting profitability.
For long-hold investors, the appreciation thesis in ZIP 18470 appears to be modest but steady. Given the median home value and the current rental rates, the setup implies that property values are likely to grow at a rate consistent with broader economic trends and inflation. The data does not support an aggressive appreciation strategy; rather, it points towards a scenario where maintaining the status quo in terms of pricing and rental yields can lead to gradual asset growth.
Investors should keep a close eye on broader economic indicators and local developments that could influence both home values and rental rates. While the current figures suggest a market that is well-positioned for steady performance, external factors can always introduce variability. The key takeaway is that ZIP 18470 offers a stable environment for those looking to hold properties for the long term, with a realistic expectation of modest appreciation and rental yield growth.
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.