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 | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,530 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,775 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,147 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,254 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $114,546 | 0.88% | C |
| 3BR | $1,410 | $147,587 | 0.96% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 15729, located in Commodore, PA, has a population of 970 residents, with only 6.2% being renters. This indicates that it is primarily a homeowner-dominated area rather than a renter-heavy market. The median household income in this ZIP code stands at $54,625, which provides a benchmark for assessing rental affordability.
Given the lack of specific market rent data for ZIP 15729, we can infer based on the median household income that typical rents would consume a significant portion of the average resident's income. For instance, if we assume that the typical rent aligns closely with the Fair Market Rent (FMR), which is set at $970 for the fiscal year 2026 in the metro area, then the rent-to-income ratio becomes critical. At $970 per month, the rent represents approximately 17.8% of the median monthly income ($4,552).
This percentage suggests that rent is a substantial expense for the average household in Commodore, PA. However, the scarcity of renters implies that the demand for housing vouchers might be lower compared to areas with a higher proportion of renters. Landlords in this ZIP code should not expect a large influx of tenants relying solely on Section 8 vouchers due to the relatively low number of renters.
The type of tenant profile landlords should anticipate includes individuals who may have a combination of income and voucher assistance, given the median income level and the FMR. Tenants will likely seek affordable housing options but may also be willing to pay slightly above the FMR if their combined income and voucher can cover the cost. Expect tenants who are careful with their finances and value stability, given the context of a community where homeownership is the predominant housing situation.
In conclusion, while there is some demand for rental properties in ZIP 15729, it is not an area heavily dominated by renters or characterized by deep voucher demand. The typical rent eats up a notable portion of local income, making financial stability a key factor for potential tenants. Landlords should prepare for a mix of tenants who use both their own income and vouchers to manage rental costs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining competitive pricing and attractive living conditions to attract and retain tenants.
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.