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 | $920 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,190 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,190 | $141,361 | 0.84% | C |
| 3BR | $1,520 | $186,704 | 0.81% | C |
| 4BR | $1,650 | $214,150 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 15144, Springdale, PA, on the axes of yield and stability reveals a market that leans towards steady cash flow rather than high-yield/low-stability. The key figures supporting this analysis include the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $990 for the fiscal year 2024, compared to the market rent of $894, and a median home value of $166,624. Additionally, the rental rate stands at 27.8%, and the median household income is $67,520.
On the yield axis, the FMR being higher than the market rent suggests an opportunity for landlords to potentially charge rents above the average market rate, thereby increasing their yield. However, the relatively low median home value of $166,624 indicates that property appreciation may not be as robust as in other areas, which would limit the potential for significant capital gains.
Moving to the stability axis, the 27.8% rental rate implies a moderate demand for rental properties, neither too high nor too low. While the exact number of days on the market (DOM) is not available, the median income figure of $67,520 provides insight into the financial health of the residents, suggesting they have the means to pay rent consistently. This income level supports the notion of stable cash flows for landlords, as it reduces the risk of tenant default.
In conclusion, Springdale, PA, presents a market that is more suited to steady cash flow than to high-yield speculative investments. The balance between the FMR and market rent, combined with the median income and rental rates, points to a stable tenant base capable of paying rent regularly, making it a reliable choice for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking for consistent returns.
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.