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 | $1,040 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,110 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,429 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,623 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,754 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,350 | $167,280 | 0.81% | C |
| 3BR | $1,720 | $319,108 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $1,870 | $493,339 | 0.38% | F |
| 5BR | $2,169 | $645,603 | 0.34% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 15057, located in the McDonald, PA area within the Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR region, reveals several key points that are crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
Firstly, regarding the rent math, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1080 for fiscal year 2024 is slightly higher than the reported market rent of $1,031 based on Census ACS data. This suggests that landlords can expect to charge rents close to the FMR without significantly overpricing their properties relative to the local market conditions.
Secondly, the acquisition cost in the form of median home values stands at $391,645. Given the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the fact that only 0.1% of homes have been subject to price cuts, it indicates that acquiring properties in this ZIP code is relatively stable and not overly speculative. The absence of DOM data could imply a steady flow of sales, but the low percentage of price-cut homes clearly shows that the market is not experiencing significant downward pressure on property values.
Lastly, concerning tenant demand, the ZIP code has a total population of 16,583, with 12.7% being renters. This implies a moderate demand for rental housing, though the percentage of renters is lower than what might be seen in urban centers, suggesting a more balanced mix of homeowners and renters.
In summary, while the rent math is favorable with the FMR slightly exceeding market rents, the acquisition costs are stable and reasonable. Tenant demand exists but is modest, indicating a need for landlords to focus on providing quality housing to attract and retain tenants. Overall, ZIP 15057 presents a viable investment opportunity for those who can offer competitive rental options and manage properties effectively.
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.