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 | $940 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,358 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,476 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,210 | $147,417 | 0.82% | C |
| 3BR | $1,540 | $234,373 | 0.66% | D |
| 4BR | $1,680 | $247,876 | 0.68% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 15021, located in Burgettstown, PA, falls within the broader Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR Area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 15021 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1030, while the average market rent stands at $846. This indicates that the FMR is higher than what tenants are currently paying on average, suggesting a potential opportunity for landlords who can position their properties accordingly.
The median home value in ZIP 15021 is $200,297, which is lower than the typical home values found in most ZIP codes within the Pittsburgh metro area. This lower home value combined with a 17.5% renter share could signal an attractive location for Section 8 investors. A higher-than-average renter share in a ZIP code with below-average home values often points to areas where rental assistance programs are more prevalent and effective.
To further contextualize these figures, it's important to note that the FMR is designed to reflect the 40th percentile of gross rents and utilities for standard-quality rental units in the area. In ZIP 15021, the FMR exceeds the market rent, indicating that there might be a premium for subsidized housing in this area. This could mean that landlords in ZIP 15021 can potentially charge closer to the FMR rate without significantly deterring tenant interest.
In comparison to other ZIP codes within the Pittsburgh metro area, ZIP 15021 appears to be a value pocket. Its lower home values and higher renter share suggest that it offers opportunities for investors looking to capitalize on areas where the demand for affordable housing is strong. However, landlords should also consider the potential challenges associated with managing properties in areas with a higher concentration of renters and possibly lower property values.
Given the specific figures, ZIP 15021 presents itself as a strategic investment location for those interested in Section 8 properties. The discrepancy between the FMR and market rent, along with the significant renter share, highlights its potential as a sweet spot within the larger Pittsburgh metro area.
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.