Location: Putnam County, WV | Metro: Putnam County, 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 | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $133,291 | 0.77% | D |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $219,280 | 0.65% | D |
| 4BR | $1,460 | $329,743 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 25168, located in Red House, WV, falls within the Putnam County, WV HUD Metro FMR Area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25168 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1100. This figure represents the benchmark used by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to determine eligibility for housing assistance programs such as Section 8.
The absence of a market rent figure for ZIP 25168 suggests that there might be limited data available on the rental market dynamics within this specific area. However, the median home value of $192,330 provides insight into the overall property value trends in the region. This home value is indicative of the affordability and economic status of the area, which can influence the rental market indirectly.
The renter share in ZIP 25168 stands at 6.1%, which is relatively low compared to urban areas but could be significant within the context of rural West Virginia. This percentage indicates the proportion of households that are renters rather than homeowners. While this figure alone doesn't provide a complete picture of the rental market, it can suggest the demand for rental properties.
To contextualize these figures, consider comparing them to other ZIP codes within the Putnam County, WV HUD Metro FMR Area. If the typical FMR across the county is higher than $1100, then ZIP 25168 could be considered a value pocket, offering lower rents relative to the surrounding areas. Conversely, if the typical FMR is lower, then it might indicate that ZIP 25168 is a premium sub-market, where rents are higher due to specific amenities or characteristics.
A notable divergence occurs when the renter share is high and the home values are below the metro average. In such cases, the area can become a sweet spot for Section 8 tenants, who seek affordable rental options. Given that the renter share in ZIP 25168 is 6.1%, and assuming this is above the average for Putnam County, it could signal a growing interest in rental properties. Coupled with the median home value of $192,330, this suggests that while the area is not necessarily a premium sub-market, it does offer a balance between affordability and potential demand for rental units.
In conclusion, ZIP 25168 appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood within the Putnam County, WV HUD Metro FMR Area. It offers a fair balance between affordable housing and a reasonable renter share, making it a suitable location for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to engage with the Section 8 program without the complexities of navigating a premium sub-market or a value pocket.
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.