Location: Sullivan County, PA | Metro: Sullivan 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 | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,370 | $95,564 | 1.43% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A skeptical investor might question whether the $970 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 18632 can cover the mortgage on a $95,331 home. According to recent data, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Mildred, PA (ZIP 18632) is around 5%. With this rate, the monthly mortgage payment on a $95,331 home would be approximately $520, assuming a 20% down payment. This means that the $970 FMR could indeed cover the mortgage payment, leaving a surplus of about $450 per month.
The next concern might be whether the 36.3% rental demand is sufficient. While this percentage indicates a moderate level of demand, it does not provide a complete picture of the market. However, with a median home value of $119,500, the overall affordability of the area suggests that rental properties could be attractive to a significant portion of potential residents. The slight increase in home values, up 5.5% over the past year, also points towards a stable local economy that supports both homeownership and rental markets.
Lastly, an investor might wonder if Section 8 vouchers will keep pace with the market rents of $787. The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Data Dashboard from HUD.gov does not specify the exact amount for ZIP 18632, but the FMR Lookup Tool 2026 indicates that the maximum allowable rent for a one-bedroom unit in ZIP 18632 is $970. This suggests that the voucher amounts should cover the current market rents of $787, and even provide some buffer for future increases. However, it is important to note that the actual voucher amount paid to landlords may vary based on the tenant's income and other factors.
In summary, while there are valid concerns regarding mortgage coverage, rental demand, and voucher amounts, the data indicates that ZIP 18632 offers a reasonably stable and viable investment opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
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.