Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Metro: Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,647 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,993 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,093 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 15482 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Tenant turnover is a significant concern, as the market rent stands at $749 compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $930 for FY 2024. This disparity can lead to higher turnover rates since tenants may seek more affordable housing options. Additionally, the vacancy exposure is heightened due to the lack of data on days on market (DOM), which indicates uncertainty around how quickly units can be filled. The typical home value in the area is $71,904, while the median income is $41,042. These figures suggest that many homeowners might be financially constrained, leading to potential deferred maintenance issues that could affect property values and increase repair costs.
However, these risks must be weighed against the fact that 50.0% of the residents are renters. High renter density typically correlates with a greater demand for rental vouchers, which can help mitigate some of the financial risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancy exposure. Despite the challenges, the strong presence of renters in the area suggests a steady pool of potential voucher holders.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.