Location: Clarion County, PA | Metro: Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 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: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,280 | $152,971 | 0.84% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
To classify ZIP code 16049, we must consider both yield and stability factors. The yield is determined by comparing the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 at $850 against the average market rent of $789 and the median home value of $133,273. Stability is gauged by examining the percentage of renters at 15.2%, the median household income at $62,650, and the days on market (DOM), which is currently unavailable.
The FMR for Section 8 being higher than the market rent suggests that this area offers a high-yield opportunity. Landlords can expect to receive slightly above-average rental income through the Section 8 program compared to standard market rates. This is particularly advantageous given the relatively low median home value of $133,273, which indicates that property acquisition costs are manageable, enhancing potential returns on investment.
However, the stability metrics paint a less favorable picture. With only 15.2% of residents identified as renters, the overall demand for rental properties is lower, indicating that the area may not be as stable for long-term cash flow. Additionally, the median household income of $62,650 could suggest limited financial flexibility among residents, potentially leading to higher risk of non-payment or delayed payments. The absence of data regarding days on market makes it challenging to assess how quickly properties can be rented out, adding another layer of uncertainty.
Given these figures, ZIP 16049 appears to be a high-yield/low-stability market. It leans towards a flip-style market where quick turnover and short-term gains are prioritized over steady, long-term cash flow. Investors should focus on properties that can be rented out swiftly and managed efficiently to mitigate the risks associated with lower overall rental demand and potentially unstable tenant finances.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.