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 | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,120 | $91,586 | 1.22% | A |
| 3BR | $1,430 | $132,408 | 1.08% | B |
| 4BR | $1,550 | $143,042 | 1.08% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP code 15419 of California, PA, potential pitfalls for Section 8 landlords include higher tenant turnover due to the disparity between the market rent of $816 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $910 for fiscal year 2024. This gap suggests that tenants might seek better deals elsewhere, leading to frequent vacancies. The lack of available data on days on market (DOM) for vacant properties further complicates the situation, as it leaves landlords uncertain about how long units may remain empty. Additionally, the typical home value of $115,171 and the median income of $43,813 present a significant risk of deferred maintenance. Landlords must be prepared to invest in property upkeep without the assurance of immediate returns, as tenants' financial constraints may limit their ability to contribute to such costs.
Despite these challenges, the high renter share of 62.9% in ZIP 15419 indicates a robust demand for rental housing, which typically translates into strong interest in Section 8 vouchers. This high concentration of renters can ensure a steady pool of potential tenants, mitigating some of the risks associated with vacancy and turnover. Moreover, the local government's support for affordable housing initiatives can provide additional resources and incentives for landlords willing to participate in the Section 8 program.
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.