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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,090 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,123 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,378 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,568 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,696 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,320 | $152,250 | 0.87% | C |
| 3BR | $1,680 | $212,289 | 0.79% | D |
| 4BR | $1,830 | $311,927 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
18.7% of residents in ZIP code 15135 are renters, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 in this area for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1010, which is notably lower than the $1,090 market rent reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey. This difference highlights the financial gap between government-subsidized housing and the private rental market.
The median home value in ZIP 15135 stands at $199,985, suggesting a moderate property value range that could be attractive to both buyers and investors. However, the median income of $82,632 indicates that many households might struggle to afford market rents without assistance, making Section 8 vouchers a critical factor in the local rental market.
Despite the lack of specific data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares, the disparity between the FMR and market rent figures underscores the importance of understanding the local housing dynamics. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, accepting Section 8 tenants can provide a stable source of income, albeit at rates below the market average.
In ZIP 15135, the decision to participate in the Section 8 program should be carefully weighed against the potential benefits of securing long-term, reliable tenants versus the opportunity cost of potentially higher market rents. Given the substantial renter share and the affordability challenges faced by many residents, Section 8 participation remains a viable strategy for maintaining occupancy and ensuring steady cash flow.
Section 8 verdict: Accepting vouchers is a prudent move for landlords in McKeesport, PA, given the high renter dependency and lower median incomes.
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.