Location: Charleston, WV | Metro: Charleston, WV 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 | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,842 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,200 | $131,107 | 0.92% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 thesis in ZIP code 25162 is centered around the discrepancy between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR stands at $850, while the Census ACS reports the market rent at $800. This creates a gap of $50, or approximately 6%, in favor of the FMR.
In this scenario where the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords and small-portfolio investors should view voucher tenants as a strategic opportunity to enhance their rental yields. The additional $50 per month, though seemingly modest, can significantly improve cash flow when considered across an entire portfolio. Moreover, the consistent and timely payment schedule provided by the Housing Choice Voucher program reduces the risk of non-payment and vacancy, which are common concerns in the open rental market.
The ZIP code 25162 has a rental population of 22.1%, indicating that there is a notable segment of the community reliant on rental properties. With a median home value of $121,986 and a median income of $63,558, it's evident that many residents may struggle to afford homeownership, thereby making rental properties, especially those that accept vouchers, highly desirable.
Accepting Section 8 tenants can be particularly beneficial in areas with a high percentage of renters and moderate median incomes. It ensures a steady stream of income without the need to charge above-market rents, which might lead to vacancies. In conclusion, the current situation in ZIP 25162 presents a clear advantage for landlords who participate in the Section 8 program, as they can achieve higher yields and maintain occupancy rates without compromising on affordability for their tenants.
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.