Location: Armstrong County, 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $121,802 | 0.89% | C |
| 3BR | $1,410 | $184,331 | 0.76% | D |
| 4BR | $1,510 | $275,855 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 15656, located in West Leechburg, PA, is part of Westmoreland County and stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 9,506 residents, 20.3% of whom rent their homes, it reflects a community that is predominantly owner-occupied. The median income in this ZIP is $68,311, which places it above the national average, while the median home value of $162,333 indicates a stable housing market.
The rental landscape in 15656 is particularly noteworthy when considering the Federal Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rates. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR for Section 8 vouchers in this ZIP code is set at $970 per month. In contrast, the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) reports the average market rent at $808 per month. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive higher rents compared to the local market rate, providing a financial incentive to accept vouchers.
The disparity between the FMR and the market rent suggests a potential for increased participation from landlords in the Section 8 program. Given the higher voucher amount, it compensates for the administrative and regulatory burdens associated with the program, making it an attractive option for property owners. Additionally, the higher median income supports the likelihood that tenants will be able to cover their share of the rent, reducing the risk of non-payment for landlords.
Evaluating the data signature of ZIP 15656, it reads as "stable." The relatively high median income and median home value indicate a financially secure community. Furthermore, the slight majority of homeowners over renters suggests a stable population with long-term residents. The Section 8 voucher economics, with the FMR exceeding the market rent, provide a consistent and reliable source of income for landlords who choose to participate in the program.
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.