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 | $1,250 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,330 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,050 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,587 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,129 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,285 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,330 | $140,859 | 0.94% | C |
| 2BR | $1,610 | $173,379 | 0.93% | C |
| 3BR | $2,050 | $214,763 | 0.95% | C |
| 4BR | $2,230 | $308,703 | 0.72% | D |
| 5BR | $2,587 | $343,895 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 15205, Crafton, PA, is set at $1330 for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge a tenant who participates in the Section 8 program. It's important to note that this is not the actual rent you would collect; it's the payment standard used by the Housing Choice Voucher Program to determine the subsidy amount.
In comparison, the local Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) for the area is $1,457. This indicates that the average market rent in the area exceeds the Section 8 payment standard. As a result, landlords must ensure that their rental units are priced appropriately to attract tenants while still being within the bounds of the Section 8 program.
The demand for rentals in this area is strong, with 45.5% of residents being renters. This suggests that there is a significant number of potential tenants who might be interested in your property, especially if they qualify for the Section 8 program. However, it also implies that competition for tenants could be fierce, so maintaining a well-maintained and affordable property is crucial.
If you're looking to acquire a new rental property in this ZIP code, the median home value is around $202,996. This gives you an idea of the typical cost for a home in the area, which can help you assess whether the investment aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental, verify that your property meets all the required safety and maintenance standards. The Housing Authority will conduct an inspection to ensure that the unit is up to code, and failing to meet these requirements can delay your participation in the program or result in penalties.
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.