Location: Indiana County, PA | Metro: Johnstown, PA MSA
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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,410 | $116,998 | 1.21% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 15714 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $850. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers in your area, meaning that voucher holders can receive assistance up to this amount. However, it's important to note that this does not dictate the rent you charge; it simply sets the maximum subsidy level.
To put this into perspective, consider the average rent in ZIP 15714 as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), which stands at $635. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the typical market rate, potentially making Section 8 rentals more financially viable for landlords.
In ZIP 15714, 25.6% of residents are renters. This suggests a moderate demand for rental properties, particularly those participating in the Section 8 program. Given the FMR is above the average rent, it could attract more tenants who qualify for the subsidy, ensuring steady occupancy rates.
The median household income in the area is approximately $70,729. While this figure doesn't directly influence the rent you should charge, it can inform your decision on property acquisition costs. If you're planning to buy a property to rent out under Section 8, keep in mind that homes priced below the median income level are more likely to be occupied by eligible tenants.
Before you commit to becoming a Section 8 landlord, it's crucial to verify that your property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards ensure that the unit is safe, decent, and sanitary, and failing to meet them can result in non-payment. Once you confirm compliance, you can proceed with confidence, knowing that the financial support from the government will help cover your rental income.
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.