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: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $194,507 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $269,376 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of the Section 8 program in ZIP code 15019, specifically centered around Bulger, PA, reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR is set at $900, whereas the Census ACS reports the market rent at $659. This means there is a $241 difference, or an increase of approximately 36.57%, between what landlords can charge under the Section 8 voucher program and the current market rate.
The disparity makes Bulger, PA a prime location for landlords seeking to maximize yields. By accepting voucher tenants, landlords can charge $900 per month, which is notably higher than the average market rent of $659. This higher rental income allows for better cash flow and potentially higher returns on investment, especially considering the relatively low percentage of renters in the area—only 13.2%. This statistic suggests that competition among landlords for tenants might be less intense, making it easier to attract voucher holders who are willing to pay the FMR rate.
However, it's important to note the implications of this gap for both landlords and tenants. Landlords benefit from the increased rental income, but they must also consider the costs associated with participating in the Section 8 program. These include potential administrative burdens, inspections, and the requirement to maintain properties at a certain standard. For tenants, the FMR rate of $900 is still affordable given the median household income of $32,926 in Bulger, PA, as it represents only about 33.3% of their annual income, which is within the typical affordability range for subsidized housing.
In conclusion, the high FMR compared to the market rent in ZIP 15019 makes it a strategic choice for landlords looking to enhance their investment yields. The median home value of $244,309 indicates a stable housing market, and the income levels suggest that voucher tenants will find the FMR rate reasonable. Therefore, landlords should seriously consider the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers, despite any additional operational challenges.
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.