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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $860 | $96,424 | 0.89% | C |
| 2BR | $1,070 | $102,866 | 1.04% | B |
| 3BR | $1,350 | $164,994 | 0.82% | C |
| 4BR | $1,410 | $270,648 | 0.52% | F |
| 5BR | $1,636 | $414,201 | 0.39% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP code 25311, located within the Charleston, WV HUD Metro FMR Area, does not align favorably for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $970 for fiscal year 2024 is higher than the actual market rent reported by the Census ACS, which stands at $918. This discrepancy suggests that tenants may struggle to meet the higher FMR standards, potentially leading to vacancies if rents are priced above the market rate.
Acquisition costs in this area are relatively low, with a median home value of $149,771. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the fact that only 0.2% of homes experience price cuts indicate that the market might be somewhat stagnant. This could make it challenging to find deals that significantly undercut the median home value, reducing opportunities for substantial profit margins through acquisition.
Tenant demand is present but not overwhelming. With a total population of 9,825, and 44.6% of residents being renters, there is a notable segment of the population seeking rental housing. Yet, the overall size of the market is limited, which could mean that competition among landlords for these tenants is fierce.
In summary, while there is a viable tenant base in ZIP 25311, the mismatch between FMR and market rent rates poses a significant challenge. Additionally, the affordability of acquisitions is tempered by a potentially sluggish market, making it difficult to find undervalued properties. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should carefully consider these factors before entering this market, as the potential for financial success is constrained by both high rent expectations and limited opportunities for property acquisition at favorable prices.
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.