Location: Indiana County, PA | Metro: Indiana County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,580 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,833 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,217 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,328 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 15745 within the Indiana County, PA metro area reveals several key points for potential Section 8 real-estate investors.
The first question to address is whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area as of fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,020. However, the lack of available market rent data makes it impossible to compare directly against what non-subsidy tenants might pay. This absence of comparison data could indicate a less competitive rental market or simply a data gap that needs addressing for a full analysis.
Regarding the affordability of property acquisition, the incomplete data on median home values, days on market (DOM), and the percentage of homes requiring price cuts before sale suggests that this area might be challenging to evaluate strictly on these metrics. Without specific figures, landlords must rely on other indicators such as local economic trends and housing supply to gauge the feasibility of purchasing properties.
Tenant demand in ZIP 15745 is relatively low. With a total population of only 239, the renter share stands at 6.4%. This means that there are fewer potential tenants relative to the overall population, which could affect the number of applications received for Section 8 properties. Landlords should prepare for a niche market where competition among properties may be less intense but where attracting and retaining tenants could require additional effort.
Verdict: While the Fair Market Rent provides a clear benchmark for rental income, the lack of comprehensive market data complicates a thorough assessment of acquisition costs and tenant demand. Investors should proceed with caution, focusing on understanding local market dynamics and being prepared for a smaller pool of potential renters. The success of Section 8 investments in ZIP 15745 will likely depend on careful consideration of the unique characteristics of this micro-market and the ability to attract and retain tenants effectively.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.