Location: Pittsburgh, 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 | $1,570 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,680 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,810 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,260 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,651 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,943 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,140 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,030 | $246,855 | 0.82% | C |
| 3BR | $2,590 | $375,407 | 0.69% | D |
| 4BR | $2,810 | $573,260 | 0.49% | F |
| 5BR | $3,260 | $810,754 | 0.4% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 16066, located in Cranberry Township, PA, is an ideal choice for inclusion in a Section 8 portfolio strategy as a cash-flow anchor. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 16066 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1660, while the current market rent stands at $1812. This indicates that the FMR is slightly below the market rate, creating a positive spread of $152 per unit. Landlords can leverage this spread to ensure steady, predictable cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 16066 is $442,839, which is indicative of a stable housing market. This stability ensures that property values will remain consistent, reducing the risk of significant depreciation. Furthermore, the low price-cut share of 0.2% and a relatively quick days on market (DOM) of 26 days suggest that properties in this area are in high demand and can be rented out efficiently without needing to lower the asking price significantly.
A key factor supporting the cash-flow anchor role is the substantial median income of $124,189. This high median income implies that tenants in ZIP 16066 are likely to have strong financial backgrounds, reducing the risk of default on rent payments. Additionally, the 24.8% renter share means there is a considerable portion of the population who prefer renting, making the area attractive for landlords seeking long-term tenants.
In summary, ZIP 16066 serves as a reliable cash-flow anchor due to its favorable FMR-market rent spread, stable housing market, efficient rental process, and financially secure tenant base. These factors combined make it a solid addition to any Section 8 portfolio aimed at generating consistent income.
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.