Location: Pocahontas County, WV | Metro: Pocahontas County, WV
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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,531 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,715 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,852 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,945 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $940 | $134,230 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $1,220 | $214,269 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Dunmore, WV, located in the 24934 ZIP code, represents an opportunity for Section 8 portfolio strategies due to its unique characteristics. This area should be considered a cash-flow anchor within any investment portfolio.
The primary reason for this classification is the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the median home value. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR for the Dunmore, WV metro area is set at $880. Despite the lack of available market rental data, the median home value stands at $171,618. This indicates that the cost of housing is relatively low compared to the rental income potential under Section 8 programs.
A cash-flow anchor is essential for stabilizing returns and ensuring consistent income streams. The FMR of $880 provides a guaranteed rental income level that can help offset mortgage payments and operational costs, making it a reliable source of cash flow. In contrast, the absence of specific market rental data suggests that traditional market rentals might not provide as stable or predictable an income as Section 8 tenancies.
Additionally, the median income figure of $40,301 supports the viability of Section 8 tenancies in this area. Lower median incomes typically mean a higher demand for affordable housing options, which aligns well with the subsidized rents offered through the Section 8 program.
While the ZIP code has a renter share of 14.4%, indicating a moderate reliance on rental properties, this does not detract from its potential as a cash-flow anchor. The focus here should be on the guaranteed nature of the rental income rather than the percentage of renters.
In summary, Dunmore, WV (ZIP 24934) serves best as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The $880 FMR ensures a stable income stream, while the lower median home value of $171,618 and median income of $40,301 support the demand for affordable housing and the feasibility of maintaining properties within the constraints of the program.
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.