Location: Forest County, PA | Metro: Clarion County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 16239 is set at $990 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 housing vouchers in the area, which means that if you participate in the Section 8 program, you will receive a subsidy up to this amount per month. It's important to note that this is not the actual rent you would charge your tenants; it's the maximum reimbursement you can expect from the government.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in ZIP 16239, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS), is $824. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the typical market rate, providing a potential buffer for landlords who might be concerned about covering costs.
Renters make up a significant portion of the housing market in this area, with 35.8% of households being renters. This suggests a steady demand for rental properties, especially those that cater to lower-income families who rely on Section 8 vouchers to afford housing. However, the average household income in ZIP 16239 is $125,103, which is notably higher than the income levels typically associated with Section 8 eligibility. This implies that while there is demand for rentals, the demand for Section 8 rentals may be more limited due to the income disparity.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental property in ZIP 16239, it's crucial to verify that the property meets the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards ensure that the property is safe and habitable for tenants. If the property does not meet these standards, it cannot be leased under the Section 8 program, regardless of the FMR or the potential tenant pool.
In summary, the FMR of $990 provides a clear benchmark for subsidies, but the actual market rent is lower at $824. The high average household income of $125,103 may limit the number of eligible Section 8 tenants. Therefore, ensuring that your property meets HQS is essential before proceeding with a Section 8 rental in this ZIP code.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.