Location: Johnstown, PA | Metro: Johnstown, PA MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 15901 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $850. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, which is designed to subsidize housing costs for low-income families. The FMR does not reflect the actual rent a tenant will pay; rather, it is the benchmark used by the Housing Choice Voucher Program to determine the maximum allowable rent.
In comparison, the average rent in ZIP 15901 based on Census American Community Survey (ACS) data is $510. This indicates that the FMR is significantly higher than the local average, providing a better financial cushion for landlords who participate in the Section 8 program.
The area has a strong demand for rentals, with 57.6% of households being renters. This high percentage suggests a robust market for rental properties, particularly those that cater to low-income tenants eligible for Section 8 assistance. Despite the demand, the median household income in the area is relatively modest at $31,712, which impacts the ability of potential tenants to afford higher rents without assistance.
When acquiring a property for a Section 8 rental, you should consider that the median income level in the area is indicative of the tenant pool's financial status. This means that while the FMR provides a solid rental rate, the actual rent paid by the tenant will be adjusted based on their income, typically around 30% of their monthly income.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental, ensure that your property meets all the required standards for habitability and safety. These standards are set by the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and must be verified through an inspection. This is a critical step to avoid any complications once the tenant moves in, as compliance with HQS ensures that you receive the full subsidy payment.
To summarize, the FMR of $850 offers a stable rental income compared to the local average of $510, and the high renter share of 57.6% points to a strong demand. However, the median income of $31,712 means that most tenants will need substantial assistance to cover the rent. Ensuring your property passes the HQS inspection is key to successfully managing a Section 8 rental in ZIP 15901.
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.