Location: Charleston, 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 | $1,010 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,170 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,216 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,482 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,450 | $78,203 | 1.85% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,830 | $112,287 | 1.63% | A+ |
| 4BR | $1,910 | $142,496 | 1.34% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25306 in Charleston, WV, for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,280. This figure represents the baseline amount that landlords can expect to receive from Section 8 vouchers. In contrast, the market rent, as measured by the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI), stands at $1,465. Given these numbers, landlords accepting Section 8 vouchers will experience a slight negative cash flow of approximately $185 per unit, unless they manage to secure premium units commanding higher rents.
To understand the broader context, the median home value in ZIP 25306 is $97,018. This yields a rent-to-price ratio of roughly 1.3%, indicating that rental properties in this area are relatively affordable compared to their purchase price. This ratio suggests that owning a home in this ZIP code is financially viable for many residents, which can influence the local rental market dynamics.
Data on the days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price cuts are currently unavailable. However, the strong demand for both rentals and homes in this area implies a competitive market where maintaining occupancy is crucial. Landlords should be aware of the potential challenges in finding tenants willing to pay above the FMR, especially given the slightly lower median home values.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 25306 is likely to be stability. Despite the slight negative cash flow at the FMR level, the consistent demand for housing and rentals provides a reliable stream of income. Additionally, the low median home value suggests that appreciation might be limited, but the market's resilience ensures a steady investment environment.
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.