Location: Jefferson County, PA | Metro: Clarion County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 15860, located in Sigel, PA within the Jefferson County, PA metro area, presents itself as an ideal diversifier within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. With a median home value of $106,773, it significantly undercuts the national median, making it accessible for both first-time buyers and rental investments.
The median income in ZIP 15860 stands at $65,774. This figure supports a moderate demand for affordable housing options, aligning well with the income levels of potential Section 8 tenants. The renter share in this area is 15.6%, indicating a reasonable portion of the population is already inclined towards renting, which can be advantageous for maintaining occupancy rates.
ZIP 15860 does not exhibit strong characteristics of being a cash-flow anchor or an appreciation play. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the Jefferson County, PA metro area for FY 2026 is set at $970, while the market rent is approximately $694. This leaves a spread of $276, which is notable but not enough to classify this ZIP as a cash-flow anchor given the relatively low median home values. Appreciation plays typically require a higher price-cut share and shorter days on market (DOM), neither of which are explicitly stated in the available data.
In conclusion, ZIP 15860 serves as a strategic diversifier within a Section 8 portfolio due to its accessible median home value and moderate median income levels. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the area's mix of affordability and rental inclination when planning their investment strategies.
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.