Location: Martinsburg, WV | Metro: Martinsburg, 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 | $950 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,020 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,060 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,677 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,891 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,036 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,310 | $267,498 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $1,810 | $315,982 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $2,060 | $389,504 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1260 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 25413, Bunker Hill, WV, as set for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount a landlord can charge for a Section 8 voucher holder. In comparison, the Census ACS reports a market rent of 1355, indicating that landlords participating in the Section 8 program could see a slight reduction in rental income. However, the median home value stands at 325,011, suggesting a stable housing market with opportunities for both rental and ownership investments. The renter share in the area is 14.3%, which means nearly one out of every seven households are renters, providing a solid base for rental properties. The median income in the region is 100,556, which is crucial for understanding the financial capacity of potential tenants. Despite the lack of specific data on days on market (DOM), the low price-cut share of 0.2% implies that homes in this area are typically sold at their listed price, reflecting strong demand and stability in the real estate market. Given these figures, landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the balance between market rents and Section 8 rates when setting their rental strategies. The proximity of the FMR to the market rent suggests that participating in the Section 8 program could be a viable option without significantly compromising on rental yields.
325,011 median home values also indicate that there might be an opportunity to purchase investment properties at reasonable prices, especially considering the strong local economy and steady rental market. The combination of a moderate renter share and a relatively high median income supports the notion that Bunker Hill, WV, offers a favorable environment for rental investments, particularly those willing to cater to the needs of Section 8 participants. With 14.3% of the population being renters, there is a consistent demand for affordable housing options, making it a strategic decision for landlords to engage in the Section 8 program to fill this need while maintaining profitability.
100,556 median income figures highlight the economic health of the area, which is essential for ensuring that tenants have the means to pay rent consistently. The low price-cut share of 0.2% further reinforces the idea that the housing market is robust, with minimal need for price adjustments, leading to a positive outlook for property values and rental income over time. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, the decision to participate in the Section 8 program should be weighed against the slightly lower rental rates compared to market rents, but the overall stability and demand for rental properties make it a prudent choice.
Section 8 Verdict: Participation in the Section 8 program is financially viable, with a stable rental market and strong demand for affordable housing in Bunker Hill, WV.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.