Location: Warren County, PA | Metro: Forest County, PA
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 | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,705 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,166 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $89,060 | 1.13% | B |
| 3BR | $1,360 | $128,479 | 1.06% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Tidioute, PA, located in ZIP code 16351, is a small town with a total population of 1,576. The town has a modest rental market, with only 21.9% of residents being renters, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. The median household income in Tidioute is $51,515, which is relatively low compared to national averages, suggesting that many residents may rely on assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers. The median home value stands at $92,674, reflecting an affordable housing market suitable for lower-income families.
When it comes to rent economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970. However, the actual market rent in Tidioute, as reported by the Census ACS, is significantly lower at $497. This substantial gap between the FMR and the market rent indicates a potential opportunity for landlords who can leverage higher allowable rents through Section 8 vouchers, while still offering affordable housing options to tenants.
The characteristics of Tidioute make it more suitable for a hands-on value-add buyer rather than a hands-off voucher operator. Given the low median income and the relatively high FMR compared to the local market rate, a landlord who actively manages their properties and works closely with the local housing authority could maximize their returns. A hands-on approach would allow for better tenant screening, maintenance, and overall management, ensuring compliance with Section 8 requirements and maintaining property values. For those willing to invest time and effort into managing their rental properties, Tidioute presents a viable option for generating steady, if not high, rental income with the support of Section 8 vouchers.
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.