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 | $1,220 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,300 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,073 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,580 | $176,824 | 0.89% | C |
| 3BR | $2,020 | $207,261 | 0.97% | C |
| 4BR | $2,190 | $254,899 | 0.86% | C |
| 5BR | $2,540 | $278,196 | 0.91% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential pitfalls for a Section 8 landlord in ZIP code 15226 in Pittsburgh, PA, are significant. Tenant turnover is a primary concern, with the market rent at $1,365 compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,240 for FY 2024. This disparity suggests that tenants might seek higher subsidies, leading to frequent moves and increased vacancy periods. Indeed, the average Days on Market (DOM) for vacant properties stands at 43 days, indicating a moderate risk of extended vacancy periods if a tenant leaves. Additionally, the typical home value of $200,822 combined with a median income of $73,321 exposes landlords to the risk of deferred maintenance. Tenants with lower incomes might struggle to keep up with the upkeep of the property, potentially leaving the landlord responsible for costly repairs.
Despite these challenges, there are several mitigating factors. The renter share in ZIP 15226 is 33.2%, which is notably high. High renter density often translates into higher demand for housing vouchers, thus increasing the likelihood of finding stable tenants. Furthermore, the concentration of renters can help landlords manage vacancy rates more effectively, as there is a steady pool of potential tenants who may be interested in Section 8 properties.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.