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 | $100,621 | 1% | B |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $160,201 | 0.81% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 15067, New Eagle, PA, stands at $52,352. Considering the market rate for rent is $719 according to Census ACS data, this presents a significant challenge for households aiming to find affordable housing. Affordability guidelines suggest that housing costs should not exceed 30% of a household's income. At $719 per month, this equates to an annual cost of $8,628, which is roughly 16.5% of the median income. While this may seem manageable, it overlooks other essential expenses such as utilities, food, healthcare, and transportation.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) standard for voucher payments in ZIP 15067 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $860. This amount is higher than the market rate but still represents a substantial portion of the median income when annualized. A household receiving a voucher would pay approximately 30% of their income towards rent, meaning the voucher would cover the remaining balance up to $860. Given the median income, this would mean a household pays around $261.76 monthly towards rent, leaving the voucher to cover the rest up to the $860 limit.
In ZIP 15067, where the population is 2,142 and 24.2% are renters, the affordability gap means that many tenants rely heavily on subsidies to secure housing. This reliance on voucher programs impacts the competition among landlords. Landlords who accept vouchers ensure a steady stream of rental income but must navigate the administrative requirements and potential delays associated with government funding. Those who focus on cash-paying tenants might face a smaller pool of viable candidates due to the economic constraints faced by many residents.
Takeaway: For landlords in ZIP 15067, accepting Section 8 vouchers can be a strategic choice to attract a larger number of tenants and maintain occupancy rates. However, the decision should weigh the benefits of guaranteed income against the administrative burdens. Cash-paying tenants might offer fewer headaches but come with the risk of vacancy if they cannot meet the full market rate without assistance. Balancing both approaches may be necessary to thrive in this market.
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.