Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 16226 - 2027

Location: Armstrong County, PA | Metro: Armstrong County, PA HUD Metro FMR Area

Investment Score for ZIP 16226

Monthly Rent (2BR)

$1,090

Median Price (2BR)

$114,240

1% Rule

0.95%

Annual Yield

11.45%

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$760
1 Bedroom	$850
2 Bedrooms	$1,090
3 Bedrooms	$1,430
4 Bedrooms	$1,490
5 Bedrooms	$1,728
6 Bedrooms	$1,935
7 Bedrooms	$2,090
8 Bedrooms	$2,195

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
1BR	$850	$81,433	1.04%	B
2BR	$1,090	$114,240	0.95%	C
3BR	$1,430	$183,741	0.78%	D
4BR	$1,490	$222,011	0.67%	D

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

7,689

Median Household Income

$63,750

Housing Units

4,175

Renter Percentage

22.5%

Occupancy Rate

86.8%

Renter Occupied

817

Ford City, Pennsylvania, located in the zip code 16226, is a small town in Armstrong County that offers a stable housing market for both landlords and small-portfolio investors. The town's economy is supported by local industries, and it provides a mix of single-family homes and rental properties.

The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a two-bedroom apartment in Ford City, Pennsylvania, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $880. This figure represents the maximum amount that HUD will pay for a unit in this area and can be used as a benchmark for setting rental prices.
The average market rent for a two-bedroom property in the area is slightly higher at $889, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS) data. This indicates that the local market is closely aligned with government standards but offers a slight premium.
The median home value in Ford City is $142,105, which is relatively low compared to national averages, making it an affordable option for both homeowners and investors looking to purchase properties.
Renters make up 22.5% of the population, suggesting a moderate demand for rental units. This percentage is indicative of a balanced market where both homeownership and renting coexist.
The median household income in Ford City is $63,750, providing insight into the economic stability of potential tenants and buyers. This income level supports a modest but steady rental market.

The data points indicate that Ford City presents a stable yet modest investment opportunity. With rental prices closely matching the Fair Market Rent and a median home value that remains accessible, the area is suitable for investors seeking a low-risk portfolio. The moderate renter share suggests a balanced market, while the median income level supports a reliable tenant base. Overall, Ford City offers a predictable return on investment without the volatility seen in more dynamic markets.

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.