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 | $1,180 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,250 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,940 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,110 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,448 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,742 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,961 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,109 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,250 | $168,474 | 0.74% | D |
| 2BR | $1,520 | $111,188 | 1.37% | A |
| 3BR | $1,940 | $173,589 | 1.12% | B |
| 4BR | $2,110 | $172,768 | 1.22% | A |
| 5BR | $2,448 | $213,114 | 1.15% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
152,932 In ZIP code 15219 of Pittsburgh, PA, the median home value stands at $152,932, making it an affordable area for both renters and owners. 79.8 Furthermore, 79.8% of residents are renters, indicating a strong demand for rental properties. 1280 The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set by HUD for fiscal year 2024, is $1280, which serves as a benchmark for rental pricing. 1669 However, the actual market rent, measured by Zillow's ZORI, is higher at $1,669, suggesting that landlords can charge above the FMR and still find tenants. 34,897 The median income in the area is $34,897, which is relatively low compared to national averages, but it aligns well with the housing costs. 0.2 With only 0.2% of listings experiencing price cuts, it's evident that the market is stable and landlords can expect consistent occupancy without needing to adjust prices frequently.
Given these figures, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the following points when evaluating opportunities in ZIP 15219. The high renter share indicates a robust rental market, and the difference between the FMR and ZORI suggests potential for higher-than-average rental income. While the median income is lower, the affordable median home value and stable market conditions make this area viable for investment. The low price-cut share further supports the stability of the rental market, reducing the risk of vacancies and price adjustments.
To summarize, the data paints a picture of a stable and potentially profitable rental market in ZIP 15219. The high renter share and the gap between FMR and ZORI indicate strong tenant demand and the possibility for above-benchmark rents. The median home value and income levels suggest that the area remains affordable and accessible for renters. Therefore, for those interested in Section 8 investments, the verdict is positive; the area offers a solid foundation for rental property investments with favorable market conditions.
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.