Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25187 - 2027

Location: Mason County, WV | Metro: Mason County, WV

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$850
1 Bedroom	$990
2 Bedrooms	$1,130
3 Bedrooms	$1,440
4 Bedrooms	$1,530
5 Bedrooms	$1,775
6 Bedrooms	$1,988
7 Bedrooms	$2,147
8 Bedrooms	$2,254

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

497

Median Household Income

$41,944

Housing Units

433

Renter Percentage

2.6%

Occupancy Rate

71.6%

Renter Occupied

The ZIP code 25187, located in West Virginia, presents a unique challenge for both renters and landlords alike. The median income for households here stands at $41,944, which is significantly lower than many other areas across the United States. This economic reality impacts the ability of residents to afford market-rate rents, which unfortunately are not available for this particular ZIP code due to limited data.

However, we do have information on the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,070 for metro FY 2026. This figure represents the standard voucher payment amount that housing authorities aim to cover under the Section 8 program. For context, a household earning the median income would typically allocate around 30% of their earnings toward housing costs, suggesting a budget of approximately $1,048 per month for rent based on the median income of $41,944. Therefore, the FMR of $1,070 is slightly above what a typical household might comfortably spend, indicating an affordability gap.

The ZIP code has a relatively low percentage of renters at 2.6%, with a total population of 497. This means that the rental market is quite small, and landlords face stiff competition for the few available tenants. Given the limited number of potential renters, the demand for affordable housing options is high, making Section 8 vouchers particularly attractive to those looking for a place to live.

Takeaway for Landlords:

Given the affordability gap, landlords should consider the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers. While the rent may be fixed at $1,070, it ensures a steady stream of income and reduces the risk of vacancy in a market with low demand.
Landlords who focus solely on cash-paying tenants may struggle to find enough residents willing or able to pay higher market rates, especially considering the economic conditions in the area.
By participating in the Section 8 program, landlords can tap into a reliable source of tenants and contribute positively to the community's need for affordable housing.

Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.