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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,860 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,158 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,417 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,741 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,180 | $288,590 | 0.41% | F |
| 3BR | $1,630 | $320,504 | 0.51% | F |
| 4BR | $1,860 | $443,997 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 25419, located in the Falling Waters, WV, Martinsburg, WV HUD Metro FMR Area, serves as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25419 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1120, which is significantly lower than the market rent of $1849. This creates a spread that benefits landlords who participate in the Section 8 program.
The median home value in this area is $314,926, indicating a relatively stable housing market. However, the primary advantage for landlords lies in the guaranteed rental income provided by the Section 8 program, which helps mitigate risks associated with vacancy and non-payment. By anchoring a portion of their portfolio in ZIP 25419, landlords can ensure consistent cash flow due to the government subsidy that covers the difference between the FMR and the market rent.
The low FMR also means that the demand for subsidized housing is likely high, given the median income of $89,284. This ensures a steady stream of qualified tenants who need assistance to afford housing in the area. Additionally, the 18.9% renter share indicates a diverse tenant base, but the focus here is on leveraging the Section 8 program to secure reliable income.
The 0.3% price-cut share and N/A-day Days on Market (DOM) suggest that while there might be some negotiation on property prices, the market is generally stable and quick to sell properties. However, these factors are less relevant when considering the role of ZIP 25419 as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio.
In summary, ZIP 25419 is best positioned as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. Landlords can rely on the guaranteed income from the program to offset the gap between the FMR and market rent, securing predictable returns on investment despite the lower-than-market rental rates.
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.