Location: Pittsburgh, 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 | $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 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $145,049 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $207,997 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $1,420 | $223,031 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 15683, located in Scottdale, PA, is part of the larger Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro Fair Market Rent (FMR) Area. The Fair Market Rent for 15683 is set at $850 for fiscal year 2024, while the actual market rent is lower at $684. This indicates that the rents in 15683 are below the FMR threshold, which can be advantageous for landlords participating in the Section 8 program. The home value in 15683 stands at $173,142, which is relatively low compared to the average home values in the broader Pittsburgh metro area.
The renter share in 15683 is 31.7%, higher than the typical share in many ZIP codes within the Pittsburgh metro area. This suggests a significant portion of residents rely on rental housing, potentially making it an attractive location for landlords seeking tenants who might qualify for Section 8 assistance. The combination of below-average market rents and a substantial renter share points to 15683 being a value pocket within the Pittsburgh metro, where the cost of living and property ownership is more affordable.
In contrast to other ZIP codes in the Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR Area, 15683 offers a lower barrier to entry for both homeowners and renters. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider this ZIP code as a strategic opportunity, especially if they aim to cater to the needs of low-income families who benefit from Section 8 vouchers. The discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent, along with the high renter share, makes 15683 a prime candidate for properties eligible under the Section 8 program.
While it's important to note that the overall market conditions and specific property characteristics will influence investment decisions, the data suggest that 15683 could offer a favorable environment for those interested in the Section 8 program. The lower market rents and home values, coupled with a higher-than-average renter share, make it a noteworthy consideration for investors looking to maximize their returns within the constraints of government-assisted housing programs.
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.