Location: Sullivan County, PA | Metro: Sullivan County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $870 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,984 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,222 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 18628, located within the Sullivan County, PA metro area, presents an interesting profile when compared to other ZIP codes in the region. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 18628 is set at $1,080 for fiscal year 2026. This figure is crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors as it indicates the maximum amount of rent that can be charged to tenants receiving Section 8 housing assistance.
The market rent for ZIP 18628 is currently unavailable, which suggests that either there is limited data on rental rates or the market is not heavily tracked. However, the median home value of $93,492 is significantly lower than what might be expected in many areas, indicating a potentially affordable market for both renters and homeowners.
The renter share in ZIP 18628 stands at 3.4%, which is relatively low. Typically, a higher renter share would suggest a greater demand for rental properties. In this case, the low renter share combined with the lower median home value could imply that the majority of residents in the area own their homes rather than rent, possibly due to the affordability of homeownership.
To determine if ZIP 18628 is a value pocket, a mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market within its metro, we must consider the FMR and median home value. Given the FMR of $1,080 and the median home value of $93,492, ZIP 18628 appears to be a value pocket. This classification is based on the lower cost of homeownership and the reasonable FMR for rental units, making it attractive for investors looking to provide affordable housing options.
A notable divergence in ZIP 18628's profile is the combination of a below-metro median home value with a relatively low renter share. While this does not necessarily signal a Section 8 sweet spot, it does highlight the potential for rental properties to serve a niche market. Landlords should focus on understanding the local economy and job market to gauge the potential demand for rental units within the ZIP code.
In summary, ZIP 18628 offers a unique opportunity for investors interested in the value pocket segment of the Sullivan County, PA metro area. With an FMR of $1,080 and a median home value of $93,492, the area presents a balance between affordability and the need for quality, affordable rental housing.
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.