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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,763 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,975 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,133 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,100 | $202,319 | 0.54% | F |
| 3BR | $1,400 | $262,374 | 0.53% | F |
| 4BR | $1,520 | $399,415 | 0.38% | F |
| 5BR | $1,763 | $495,777 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
960 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 15009, Beaver, PA, for fiscal year 2024. 1,085 is the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), indicating the average market rent in the area. 270,094 represents the median home value, providing insight into the overall housing market dynamics. 26.1% is the renter share of the population, suggesting a moderate demand for rental properties. 88,294 is the median income, which can be used to assess the financial capacity of potential tenants. 49 days is the average Days on Market (DOM), showing how long it typically takes to rent out a property. 0.2% is the price-cut share, indicating that very few landlords need to reduce their asking prices to attract tenants.
When comparing the FMR of 960 to the ZORI of 1,085, it's evident that market rents exceed the government-set limits, potentially making Section 8 properties less attractive to landlords. However, the median home value of 270,094 suggests that the area is not overly expensive, which could still make it viable for those willing to participate in the program. The renter share of 26.1% indicates a steady rental market, but the median income of 88,294 may limit the pool of eligible tenants who can afford higher rents outside of Section 8.
The DOM of 49 days is relatively short, reflecting a competitive rental market where properties are filled quickly. The low price-cut share of 0.2% further supports this, as it shows that landlords generally set accurate rental prices that align with tenant expectations.
In conclusion, while the market rents surpass the FMR, the manageable median home value and quick rental turnover suggest that Section 8 properties can still be a solid investment in Beaver, PA. The final decision should weigh the lower rents against the potential for quicker occupancy and fewer price adjustments. Verdict: Suitable for Section 8 participation with strategic property management.
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.