Location: Lawrence 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $136,271 | 0.74% | D |
| 3BR | $1,400 | $193,897 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $1,540 | $231,172 | 0.67% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 16157, located in Wampum, Pennsylvania, falls within the Lawrence County, PA HUD Metro FMR Area. To understand its position relative to other ZIP codes in this area, let's examine the key metrics provided: Fair Market Rent (FMR), market rent, home value, and renter share.
The FMR for ZIP 16157 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $850. This figure is higher than the average market rent of $667, indicating that subsidized housing may be slightly overpriced compared to the local rental market. However, the FMR is designed to reflect the cost of housing in a given area, taking into account factors such as location and amenities, which might justify the higher price.
The median home value in ZIP 16157 is $160,181, which is relatively low compared to many other areas. This suggests that the real estate market in Wampum is affordable, potentially attracting first-time buyers and investors looking for entry-level properties.
The renter share in ZIP 16157 is 19.9%, which is notable because it is above the typical percentage seen in many suburban and rural areas. A higher renter share can indicate a strong demand for rental properties, especially if coupled with lower home values. This combination often signifies a value pocket for Section 8 investments, where there is both a need for affordable housing and a reasonable opportunity to manage rental properties profitably.
To determine if ZIP 16157 is a value pocket, mid-tier neighborhood, or a premium sub-market within its metro, we must consider how these figures compare to the broader Lawrence County, PA HUD Metro FMR Area. The FMR of $850 is likely above the county average, suggesting a somewhat higher cost of living in Wampum. Meanwhile, the market rent of $667 and home value of $160,181 are indicative of an affordable market, which contrasts with the higher FMR.
The higher renter share of 19.9% combined with the below-average home values points towards a potential sweet spot for Section 8 investments. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should find opportunities to offer affordable housing that meets the needs of renters while still being financially viable.
In summary, ZIP 16157 appears to be a value pocket within the Lawrence County, PA HUD Metro FMR Area. It offers a balance between affordable home values and a higher-than-average renter share, making it an attractive option for those interested in Section 8 real estate.
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.