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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,926 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,447 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,510 | $198,189 | 0.76% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
910 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 18709 as of fiscal year 2024, indicating the maximum amount that a Section 8 voucher holder can pay towards their housing. 807 is the average market rent reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, suggesting that properties priced at or below the FMR will be highly competitive in this area. 172,623 represents the median home value, which provides a baseline for understanding the overall property values in the region. 42.0% is the proportion of residents who are renters, reflecting a significant demand for rental properties in ZIP 18709. 42,135 is the median household income, underscoring the financial capabilities of the local population, though it also highlights the necessity for affordable housing solutions like Section 8 vouchers. Data on the typical days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that require price cuts is currently unavailable, which could imply a stable market without significant fluctuations in pricing or time to sell. Given these figures, landlords and small-portfolio investors should find the opportunity to participate in the Section 8 program financially viable, considering the alignment between the FMR and market rents, coupled with a substantial renter base and median incomes that support the need for subsidized housing. In ZIP 18709, the Section 8 program presents a reliable avenue for securing tenants and achieving steady rental income.
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.