Over the past decade, the population in zip code 17856 has remained relatively stable, with minor fluctuations. The median income has shown an overall increasing trend, rising from $54,601 in 2013 to $61,870 in 2022. This growth in median income might indicate a reduced need for additional affordable housing in recent years.

The racial composition of zip code 17856 has remained predominantly white, with a slight increase in diversity. The Hispanic population grew from 0% in 2013 to 10% in 2021, before dropping to 0% again in 2022. This fluctuation might suggest changing demographic patterns that could influence future affordable housing needs.

Zip code 17856 in New Columbia, Pennsylvania, has a single LIHTC-funded affordable housing project that has been serving the community since 1997. While it covers a small percentage of the estimated housing inventory, it provides 24 low-income units, primarily consisting of two-bedroom apartments. The area has experienced stable population levels and increasing median income over the past decade, which may have influenced the lack of additional LIHTC projects in recent years. As demographics continue to evolve, ongoing assessment of affordable housing needs in this zip code will be crucial to ensure adequate housing options for all residents.