Location: Alleghany County-Clifton Forge city-Covington city, VA | Metro: Roanoke, VA HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $970 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,010 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,170 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,204 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,468 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,665 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,798 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,170 | $185,606 | 0.63% | D |
| 3BR | $1,590 | $255,552 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $1,900 | $324,993 | 0.58% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1030 for ZIP code 24085 in Eagle Rock, VA, for fiscal year 2024, landlords have a clear benchmark for rental pricing. The Census American Community Survey reports the average market rent at $845, indicating that properties priced closer to the FMR may attract tenants seeking assistance through Section 8 vouchers. The median home value stands at $137,362, reflecting a relatively affordable market for both buyers and investors looking to enter the rental sector. Renter share in Eagle Rock is 6.9%, suggesting a modest but stable demand for rental properties. Median income for residents is $53,633, which aligns well with the typical earnings profile for those who might qualify for housing assistance programs.
The absence of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price cuts indicates a lack of volatility in property listings, possibly due to a balanced market where supply meets demand without significant overpricing. This stability can be advantageous for landlords and small-portfolio investors, as it minimizes the risk of prolonged vacancies or the need to significantly reduce asking prices to secure tenants.
In Eagle Rock, the discrepancy between the FMR and the actual market rent presents an opportunity for landlords to position their properties favorably for Section 8 participants. However, the relatively low renter share suggests that competition for voucher holders may not be intense, allowing for careful selection of tenants without necessarily having to lower standards. The median income figure supports the viability of Section 8 in this area, as it is consistent with the income levels typically associated with eligibility for such programs.
A final consideration for investors is the overall economic environment. With the median income at $53,633, there is a strong likelihood that many potential tenants would benefit from the support offered by the Section 8 program, making it a practical option for both tenants and landlords.
Verdict: Eagle Rock, VA, is a suitable market for Section 8 rentals, given the favorable gap between FMR and market rent, combined with a stable property market and income levels that align well with program eligibility.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.