Location: Somerset County, PA | Metro: Somerset County, PA
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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,833 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,217 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,328 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,360 | $217,489 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 15551 in the Somerset County, PA metro area reveals several key points for landlords and small-portfolio investors considering investment.
The rent math does not work favorably. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $980 for fiscal year 2026, is higher than the actual market rent of $742 as reported by the Census ACS. This discrepancy suggests that landlords may face challenges in setting rents high enough to cover costs aligned with the FMR standards.
Acquisition in this area is relatively affordable. With a median home value of $181,961, potential investors can secure properties at a reasonable cost. However, the lack of data on Days on Market (DOM) and the percentage of homes needing price cuts indicates a less transparent market condition regarding how quickly homes sell and at what discount rate.
Tenant demand is modest given the small population size of 609 and only a 13.9% renter share. This means that the pool of potential tenants is limited, which could affect occupancy rates and the ability to fill vacancies quickly.
Verdict: While the acquisition cost appears to be within a manageable range for small-portfolio investors, the unfavorable rent math and limited tenant demand suggest that the ZIP code 15551 may present challenges in achieving strong rental income and maintaining consistent occupancy levels. Investors should proceed with caution and consider these factors carefully before making any decisions.
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.