Location: Lincoln County, 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 | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $990 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,702 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,838 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,930 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $990 | $119,976 | 0.83% | C |
| 3BR | $1,260 | $170,799 | 0.74% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 25202, located in Alum Creek, West Virginia, is part of Lincoln County and stands out due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 1,451 residents, it has a relatively low rental rate at 5.9%, indicating that most residents own their homes. The median income in this ZIP is $96,328, which is above the national average, and the median home value is $148,087, suggesting a comfortable living standard for homeowners.
In terms of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25202 is set at $950 for fiscal year 2024. This figure is crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors as it represents the maximum amount the government will pay for rent through the voucher program. Given that the market rent data is currently unavailable, it's important to consider the FMR as a benchmark for setting competitive rental rates for subsidized housing units.
The data signature for ZIP 25202 indicates a stable environment. The high median income suggests financial stability among residents, while the low rental rate implies a strong preference for homeownership. For landlords and investors looking to enter the Section 8 market, the FMR of $950 provides a clear guideline for pricing their rental units. However, without specific market rent data, it's advisable to monitor local trends closely to ensure competitiveness and profitability.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.