Location: Mason County, WV | Metro: Mason County, WV
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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,330 | $222,896 | 0.6% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
23.1% of the residents in ZIP code 25287 are renters, indicating a significant demand for rental properties. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $980, which represents the maximum amount that Section 8 vouchers can cover for housing costs. This figure is crucial for landlords considering participation in the program, as it sets the upper limit for rental agreements. Meanwhile, the median home value in the area stands at $176,975, suggesting that property values are relatively stable and affordable. The median income of $99,458 provides insight into the economic health of the community, with implications for the ability of residents to afford higher rents or mortgages. Although the Days on Market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that had their prices cut are not available, these data points typically affect the supply side of the real estate market. Given the specific FMR and median home value, landlords in ZIP 25287 can expect a steady stream of tenants willing to use Section 8 vouchers, as the local economy supports a mix of homeowners and renters.
The participation in Section 8 for landlords in ZIP 25287 can be seen as a reliable option, given the established FMR and the reasonable median home value. With a 23.1% renter share, there is a notable portion of the population looking for rental housing, making the area suitable for those who want to ensure occupancy rates. The median income figure further suggests that the local economy is strong enough to support both rental and ownership markets, reducing the risk of tenant default. However, without detailed information on the DOM and price-cut share, it's challenging to gauge the competitiveness of the rental market. Nonetheless, based on the available data, landlords should consider the benefits of the Section 8 program, including guaranteed rental income and a stable tenant pool.
980 is the key number for landlords interested in the Section 8 program in ZIP 25287, as it dictates the maximum allowable rent. This, combined with a median home value of $176,975 and a median income of $99,458, paints a picture of an area where Section 8 can be a viable and stable investment strategy.
Verdict: Participate in Section 8 if you aim for stable occupancy and predictable income in ZIP 25287.
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.