Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Metro: Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $173,626 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $262,352 | 0.5% | F |
| 4BR | $1,420 | $451,535 | 0.31% | F |
| 5BR | $1,647 | $1,175,390 | 0.14% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 15005 in Baden, PA, presents an interesting balance between yield potential and market stability. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $850, which is notably higher than the current market rent of $660. This discrepancy suggests that there is room for rental price increases, potentially leading to higher yields for landlords.
To further assess the yield, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $281,461. Given the FMR and market rent figures, landlords can expect a strong rental income relative to property values, making it a favorable investment for those looking to maximize returns.
On the stability axis, the ZIP code reveals a mixed picture. Only 13.4% of the population are renters, indicating a lower demand for rental properties compared to areas with higher percentages of renters. However, the median household income is $73,354, which is relatively high and could support higher rents over time, enhancing the long-term stability of rental cash flows.
The lack of data on days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to gauge how quickly properties might be rented out, which is a key indicator of stability. Despite this gap, the combination of a moderate rental yield potential and a solid median income suggests that ZIP 15005 is not a high-yield/low-stability market typical of quick flips. Instead, it leans towards a steady-cashflow zone, where the focus should be on maintaining consistent occupancy rather than rapid appreciation or turnover.
In summary, ZIP 15005 offers a moderate yield opportunity, driven by the $850 FMR against a $660 market rent, and a stable environment supported by a median income of $73,354. It is suitable for investors seeking a reliable source of rental income rather than those focused solely on maximizing short-term gains.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.