Location: Venango 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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,050 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,050 | $176,907 | 0.59% | F |
| 3BR | $1,450 | $250,664 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $1,650 | $330,563 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 16127, Grove City, PA, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $860. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 program, known officially as the Housing Choice Voucher program. It's important to note that this is not the rent you'll receive; it's the payment standard used to determine the subsidy amount.
In comparison, the local Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) for the area is $835. This indicates that the FMR is slightly higher than the average rent observed in the market, which could be beneficial if you're looking to enter the Section 8 rental market. The difference between the FMR and the ZORI suggests that Section 8 vouchers might cover a bit more than typical market rents, giving you a margin for potential maintenance costs or other expenses.
The 24.8% renter share of the population in Grove City signals a moderate demand for rental properties. While it's not a high percentage, it does mean there's a significant portion of the population relying on rentals, including those who might benefit from Section 8 assistance. This can provide a steady stream of tenants interested in your property, assuming it meets the necessary requirements.
If you're considering acquiring a new rental property in Grove City, the median home value is approximately $215,222. This is the price point around which you should look when purchasing a home to convert into a rental unit. Keep in mind that the FMR will only cover part of the mortgage and upkeep costs, so ensure that your acquisition aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Before proceeding with your first Section 8 rental, verify that your property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards are designed to ensure that the homes are safe, decent, and sanitary. Failure to meet these criteria can result in your property being ineligible for the program, leading to a loss of potential rental income.
To summarize, the FMR of $860 is the ceiling for rent under Section 8, while the ZORI of $835 shows that it's above average market rent. With a 24.8% renter share, there's a reasonable demand for rental units, and a median home value of $215,222 sets your price range. Ensure your property meets HQS to avoid disqualification and secure your place in the Section 8 rental market.
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.