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 | $96,078 | 1.05% | B |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $128,816 | 1.01% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 15035, which encompasses East McKeesport, PA, within the Allegheny County and Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR area, is set at $870 for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge a tenant participating in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. In comparison, the Census ACS reports the average market rent for the same area at $780. This indicates that voucher tenants will generally cashflow positively at the HUD FMR, as it exceeds the average market rent by $90.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $115,009. Using this figure, we can calculate the rent-to-price ratio. The average market rent of $780 equates to an annual rental income of $9,240, leading to a rent-to-price ratio of approximately 8%. This suggests that properties in this area offer reasonable returns relative to their purchase price, making them attractive for investors seeking steady cash flow.
Regarding the dynamics between renting and buying, the data shows a median Days on Market (DOM) and a percentage of price cuts as N/A. While these metrics are typically indicative of market health and seller urgency, the lack of specific data means we cannot draw definitive conclusions about the rent-versus-buy scenario in this particular ZIP code. However, given the positive cashflow from voucher tenants and the relatively low median home value, the primary strength for investors lies in the cashflow potential rather than appreciation or stability.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 15035 is the guaranteed cashflow from Section 8 voucher tenants, who pay a rate that comfortably exceeds the average market rent, providing a reliable source of income even when compared to the median home value.
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.