Location: Indiana County, PA | Metro: Indiana 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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $960 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,700 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,972 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,505 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,130 | $97,440 | 1.16% | B |
| 3BR | $1,560 | $133,705 | 1.17% | B |
| 4BR | $1,700 | $177,697 | 0.96% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP code 15728, located in Clymer, PA, within the Indiana County, PA metro area, does not align favorably. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,080 for the fiscal year 2026 contrasts sharply with the actual market rent of $835, according to Census ACS data. This discrepancy suggests that landlords might struggle to cover costs and profit margins if they rely solely on the FMR rates.
Acquisition affordability is a mixed bag. With a median home value of $117,545, the cost of entry into the real estate market is relatively low. However, the lack of data regarding the number of days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes requiring price cuts indicates an uncertain market liquidity and potential difficulty in selling properties quickly or without concessions.
Tenant demand in ZIP 15728 is moderate. The area has a total population of 3,510, with 26.1% of residents being renters. This implies a consistent but not overwhelming need for rental housing. Landlords should expect a steady stream of tenants but must be prepared for competition and possibly lower rents to attract and retain them.
Verdict: For small-portfolio investors and landlords looking to enter the Clymer, PA, market, the opportunity presents itself as moderately attractive. While the median home value offers a low barrier to entry, the mismatch between FMR and market rent suggests a need for careful financial planning to ensure profitability. Tenant demand is present but limited, necessitating competitive pricing and possibly quicker turnover times. Given these factors, the Clymer, PA, market could be a viable option for those willing to manage expectations and adapt to local conditions.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.