Location: Chautauqua County, NY | Metro: Chautauqua County, NY
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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,728 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,935 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $216,487 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $1,430 | $258,490 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $1,490 | $336,393 | 0.44% | F |
| 5BR | $1,728 | $472,569 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 14710, located in Ashville, NY within the Chautauqua County, NY metro area, serves as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This classification is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026, which stands at $970, and the current market rent of $623. The difference indicates that properties in this ZIP code can be rented out at rates higher than the market average when participating in the Section 8 program, thus providing a stable and predictable cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 14710 is $237,590, which suggests that while property values are not exceptionally high, they offer a solid foundation for investment. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can leverage the FMR to ensure their rental income covers mortgage payments, maintenance costs, and other expenses, thereby minimizing financial risk.
Although the ZIP code does not present an immediate opportunity for rapid appreciation, given the lack of specific data on price-cut shares and days on market (DOM), it still holds value as part of a diversified investment strategy. With an 8.4% renter share and a median income of $66,120, there is a modest but steady demand for rental housing in the area. This demographic supports the idea that ZIP 14710 can act as a diversifier, adding stability to an investor's overall portfolio without relying solely on appreciation plays.
In conclusion, ZIP 14710 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor due to the substantial difference between the FMR and market rent. It offers a reliable source of income and helps balance a portfolio against the volatility often associated with appreciation-focused investments.
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.