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 | $1,560 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,670 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,580 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,800 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,248 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,638 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,929 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,125 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,020 | $177,424 | 1.14% | B |
| 3BR | $2,580 | $304,136 | 0.85% | C |
| 4BR | $2,800 | $429,190 | 0.65% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 15321, located in Cecil-Bishop, PA within Washington County, stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 2,025 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate at 24.2%, indicating that a majority of the residents own their homes. The median income for the area is $117,656, which is notably higher than the national average, suggesting a financially stable community. Furthermore, the median home value of $289,467 is indicative of a modestly priced housing market compared to other regions in Pennsylvania.
In terms of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 15321 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,360, while the Census American Community Survey (ACS) indicates a market rent of $1,465. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect a slight shortfall between the voucher amount and the market rent, but the gap is manageable. The difference of $105 per month between the FMR and market rent is not substantial enough to deter participation in the program, especially considering the overall financial health of the ZIP code's residents.
Based on the data signature, ZIP 15321 appears to be a stable community. The combination of a high median income, a modest median home value, and a reasonable gap between FMR and market rents suggests that there is little pressure for rapid change or significant disruption. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should find the environment predictable and conducive to long-term planning without the need for frequent adjustments to their investment strategies.
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.