Location: Essex County, VA | Metro: Essex County, VA
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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,150 | $243,212 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $1,390 | $306,406 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $1,650 | $449,042 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,090 for ZIP 22454 (Dunnsville, VA) in metro FY 2026, landlords can expect to align their rental prices with HUD standards to attract Section 8 tenants. The market rent, according to Census ACS data, stands at $978, indicating a slight premium for Section 8 units. Given the median home value of $282,091, it's evident that homeownership is relatively affordable, yet the 25.5% share of renters suggests a significant portion of the population relies on rental housing. This creates a stable demand for rental properties, including those participating in the Section 8 program.
The median income of $49,480 provides insight into the economic profile of Dunnsville residents, which is crucial for understanding the potential tenant pool. While the exact days on market (DOM) and percentage of price-cut shares are not available, the combination of a moderate median home value and a reasonable market rent implies that property values are steady and not prone to frequent adjustments. For landlords, this means that once a property is enrolled in Section 8, they can anticipate consistent rental income without the need for frequent rent increases or decreases.
The difference between the FMR and the market rent highlights an opportunity for landlords to charge slightly above market rates while still being within the acceptable range for Section 8 participants. This margin allows landlords to cover maintenance costs, insurance, and other expenses associated with property management without compromising on affordability for tenants. Moreover, the stability in property values and the absence of high volatility in the local real estate market suggest that Dunnsville is a reliable location for long-term investment.
Based on these figures, the Section 8 program in Dunnsville, VA, offers a viable option for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking a predictable income stream. The balance between the FMR and market rent, along with the steady property values, supports a positive outlook for Section 8 participation. Landlords should consider enrolling their properties in the program to tap into a guaranteed tenant base, ensuring a stable occupancy rate and financial returns.
Verdict: Dunnsville, VA, is a favorable market for Section 8 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.