Location: Steuben County, NY | Metro: Steuben 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 | $1,250 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,260 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,100 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,086 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,456 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,732 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,919 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,100 | $213,836 | 0.98% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 14858 within the Steuben County, NY metro reveals several key points when compared to typical ZIP codes in the area. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,300 for fiscal year 2026, it aligns closely with the overall metro average, indicating that it is neither significantly cheaper nor more expensive than other areas in terms of rental costs. However, the absence of specific market rent data for ZIP 14858 limits a direct comparison to local rental trends.
The median home value in ZIP 14858 stands at $197,973, which is likely below the average for the entire Steuben County, NY metro area. This suggests that the ZIP code could be considered a value pocket for investors looking to acquire properties at relatively lower prices compared to the broader market. The lower home values also imply a potentially less affluent demographic, which can be significant for landlords considering Section 8 tenants.
ZIP 14858 has a renter share of 4.6%, which is notably low compared to typical ZIP codes in the region. A higher percentage of renters would usually indicate a greater demand for rentals, but the low figure here might suggest that many residents prefer homeownership over renting. Despite the low renter share, the combination of lower home values and the set FMR can still present an opportunity for landlords who cater to Section 8 housing vouchers.
To determine if ZIP 14858 represents a sweet spot for Section 8 investments, we need to consider the relationship between its renter share and home values. While the renter share is low, the below-average home values do not necessarily signal a Section 8 sweet spot due to the lack of a high renter share. Instead, the low renter share may indicate that the ZIP code is more suited for owner-occupied homes, which could limit the attractiveness for small-portfolio investors focusing on rental properties.
In conclusion, ZIP 14858 appears to be a value pocket within the Steuben County, NY metro, primarily due to its below-average home values. However, the low renter share might not make it a prime target for Section 8-focused landlords, unless there are other factors that increase the appeal of rental properties in this area.
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.