Location: Bedford County, PA | Metro: Bedford County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,840 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,180 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,529 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,059 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,212 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 15539 is located in a suburban area characterized by a relatively small population of 158 residents. This neighborhood stands out due to its unique demographic feature: there are no reported renters, indicating that it is entirely composed of homeowners. The median household income here is $45,893, which places it below the national average but still within a comfortable range for many families. The median home value in this area is $194,609, suggesting that homes are moderately priced and accessible to a broad segment of the population.
Moving into the realm of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 15539 is set at $1,190 for the fiscal year 2026. However, it's important to note that there is no recorded market rent for this area, likely due to the absence of rental properties. This discrepancy highlights the challenge of applying traditional rental metrics to a community where homeownership is the norm.
Given these characteristics, ZIP 15539 would not be an ideal location for a hands-off voucher operator. The lack of rental units means that there is no existing market for Section 8 tenants, and the conversion of homes into rental properties might face significant resistance from local homeowners. On the other hand, a hands-on value-add buyer could potentially find opportunities in this area. By acquiring homes and converting them into rental properties, such an investor could cater to low-income individuals seeking affordable housing under the Section 8 program. However, they must be prepared to navigate a community where the concept of renting is not prevalent, possibly requiring additional efforts to integrate rental properties into the local landscape.
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.