Location: Scranton--Wilkes-Barre, 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 | $1,030 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,200 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,940 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,471 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,768 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,989 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,138 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,940 | $239,657 | 0.81% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 18642 is characterized by a significant proportion of renters, making up 30.7% of the population. With a total population of 4,530, this indicates a substantial tenant pool that could benefit from Section 8 housing vouchers. The median household income stands at $61,250, which provides a baseline for assessing the financial capacity of potential tenants.
The market rent in this area is currently $1,187 per month. This represents approximately 36% of the median monthly income ($5,104), indicating that typical rent consumes a considerable portion of local incomes. In comparison, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,030, suggesting that the actual market rent is above the FMR threshold.
A landlord in ZIP 18642 should anticipate a tenant profile that includes individuals and families who rely on housing vouchers to meet their rental obligations. These tenants will likely have an income below the median, often needing assistance to afford the current market rents. Given the higher market rent compared to the FMR, there is likely a strong demand for vouchers among the renting population, as it helps bridge the gap between their income and the cost of living.
To conclude, ZIP 18642 is a renter-heavy area with a notable demand for Section 8 vouchers due to the disparity between median income and market rent. Landlords should prepare for tenants who are financially dependent on government assistance to cover their 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.