Location: Indiana 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 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 | $1,010 | $126,722 | 0.8% | D |
| 3BR | $1,390 | $178,805 | 0.78% | D |
| 4BR | $1,510 | $193,999 | 0.78% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of the Section 8 program in ZIP code 15717, which encompasses Blairsville, PA, reveals a significant financial gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR is set at $950, whereas the Census ACS reports the market rent at $744. This results in a $206 difference, or a 27.7% premium that landlords can potentially charge voucher tenants.
The discrepancy between the FMR and market rent makes Blairsville an attractive location for landlords seeking to maximize their rental yields. With a 27.7% higher rate charged through vouchers, landlords can effectively increase their income above the typical market rates. This is particularly beneficial given the local context where only 24.2% of residents are renters, suggesting a lower competition for rental properties. Additionally, the median home value of $154,425 and median income of $61,304 provide a backdrop where rental income can be a substantial portion of a landlord's overall financial strategy.
However, it is important to note that while the FMR allows for higher rents, landlords must still adhere to the Housing Choice Voucher Program requirements. This means that accepting voucher tenants comes with certain administrative and regulatory responsibilities. Despite these considerations, the potential for increased yield is compelling, especially when compared to the lower market rent of $744. Landlords should carefully weigh the benefits of higher rental income against the costs associated with managing voucher tenants.
In conclusion, the financial landscape of Blairsville, PA, as represented by ZIP 15717, offers a clear opportunity for landlords to leverage the Section 8 program. The $206 premium over the market rent translates into a significant boost in rental income, making it a strategic choice for those looking to enhance their investment returns. Given the relatively low percentage of renters and the median income levels, landlords can position themselves to capitalize on the demand for affordable housing while ensuring a favorable rental yield.
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.