Location: Somerset County, PA | Metro: Somerset County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,821 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,203 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
The median household income in ZIP 15549 (Listie, PA) is $40,549. The market rate for rent in this area is $1,126. Comparing this to the voucher payment standard of $970 (FMR for metro FY 2026), there is a significant affordability gap for renters relying solely on their income.
Renters in this area face challenges affording the market rate, especially given the voucher payment standard is below the median rent. With the median rent being higher than the voucher amount, landlords may find themselves competing between accepting lower payments through vouchers or seeking higher-paying tenants who can afford the market rate.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear: accepting vouchers may limit immediate rental income but ensures consistent, government-backed payments. In contrast, focusing on cash-paying tenants could yield higher monthly rents but requires careful screening to ensure financial stability and reduce risk of vacancy or non-payment. Landlords should weigh these options based on their investment goals and risk tolerance.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027).
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.