Location: Roane County, WV | Metro: Parkersburg-Vienna, WV MSA
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,310 | $164,564 | 0.8% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 25270 stands at $44,129, which places significant constraints on the financial capabilities of households in the area. The market rate for rent, according to the Census ACS, is $577 per month. This figure represents a substantial portion of the average household's income, making it challenging for many residents to cover their housing expenses without financial strain.
In contrast, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for voucher payments in ZIP code 25270 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $850 per month. This amount is notably higher than the market rate, indicating that voucher recipients might have more flexibility when it comes to finding affordable housing options. However, the discrepancy between the market rate and the FMR suggests a potential affordability gap for non-voucher households, who must pay significantly more than the typical market rate to receive government assistance.
The ZIP code has a relatively low percentage of renters at 16.7%, with a total population of 1,127. This means that there are fewer potential tenants in the market, which could intensify competition among landlords. Given the limited number of renters and the financial challenges faced by those with incomes around the median, landlords should consider the benefits of accepting vouchers. Vouchers can provide a steady stream of rental income, as they are based on the higher FMR of $850 rather than the lower market rate.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher versus cash-pay strategies is clear. While cash-paying tenants may offer more immediate financial flexibility, the guaranteed income from vouchers, which is pegged at a higher rate, can be more reliable and less susceptible to market fluctuations. Landlords should weigh the advantages of accepting vouchers against the potentially smaller pool of cash-paying tenants in ZIP code 25270.
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.