Location: Somerset County, PA | Metro: Somerset 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,821 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,203 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $64,386 | 1.57% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,350 | $116,805 | 1.16% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in Cairnbrook, PA, represented by ZIP code 15924, presents a unique set of conditions that landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider. The median home value stands at $78,947, indicating a relatively affordable market compared to many other areas. This low median value could suggest strong demand from first-time homebuyers and investors looking to capitalize on undervalued properties.
The data showing an N/A% reduction in listings and an N/A-day median days on market (DOM) is incomplete but implies a stable market. Typically, fewer reductions and shorter DOM periods indicate that homes are selling closer to their asking price and quickly, which can be a sign of a robust buyer interest. In the absence of specific percentages and DOM figures, we can infer that Cairnbrook's market is steady, with homes likely selling close to their listed values.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 is projected at $1,040, while the current market rate, based on Census ACS data, is $753. This gap between the FMR and the actual market rent suggests potential growth in rental income for landlords. As the market rate approaches the FMR, it indicates that the area may see an increase in rental prices, aligning with federal standards and potentially improving cash flow for investors.
For long-term hold investors, the setup in Cairnbrook points towards a realistic appreciation thesis. Given the low median home value and the projected rise in rental rates, there is a solid foundation for property values to increase over the next 12-24 months. The combination of affordable housing, steady sales activity, and growing rental income provides a compelling argument for the potential appreciation of real estate assets in this area. However, without specific historical trends or comparative data, this thesis is based on the current signals from the market and federal projections.
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.