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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,160 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,160 | $212,409 | 0.55% | F |
| 3BR | $1,520 | $310,783 | 0.49% | F |
| 4BR | $1,670 | $450,848 | 0.37% | F |
| 5BR | $1,937 | $610,193 | 0.32% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 18707, located in Mountain Top, PA, presents a dynamic rental market influenced by several key indicators. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area stands at $960 for fiscal year 2024, while the market rent as reported by the Census American Community Survey (ACS) is slightly lower at $868. This suggests that there is a slight premium on FMR compared to actual market rents, indicating a potential gap between what is considered fair and what tenants are willing to pay.
A 0.2% price-cut share implies that very few landlords are offering discounts to attract tenants, which can be interpreted as a sign of stable demand. However, the lack of available days on the market (DOM) data prevents a complete picture of how quickly properties are being rented. Despite this missing piece, the median home value of $322,790 provides insight into the overall economic status of homeowners in the area, suggesting a middle-class neighborhood with moderate property values.
The 9.9% renter share indicates that the vast majority of residents in Mountain Top, PA, own their homes. This low percentage of renters might suggest that the area has less immediate pressure on rental properties but could also imply that long-term housing pressure is likely to remain consistent. As the local economy evolves, the relatively low renter population might face challenges in finding affordable housing options, especially if the trend towards ownership continues.
In summary, the market in ZIP 18707 leans toward demand matching supply closely, with only minor adjustments needed to attract tenants. The low renter share points to a predominantly owner-occupied community, which could mean that rental properties will continue to see steady but not overwhelming demand. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should focus on maintaining competitive rents without significant discounts to sustain occupancy rates.
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.