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 | $970 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,150 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,494 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,016 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,167 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,340 | $235,622 | 0.57% | F |
| 3BR | $1,810 | $361,144 | 0.5% | F |
| 4BR | $2,150 | $469,260 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 25420, located in Gerrardstown, WV, falls within the broader HUD Metro FMR Area encompassing Martinsburg, WV. To analyze its position within this metro area, we must consider several key metrics: Fair Market Rent (FMR), market rent, home value, and renter share.
The Fair Market Rent for ZIP 25420 is set at $1210 for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for a rental unit under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. In comparison to typical ZIP codes within the Martinsburg, WV HUD Metro FMR Area, where the average FMR might be higher, ZIP 25420 stands out as having a relatively lower FMR. This suggests it could be a value pocket for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The market rent for ZIP 25420 is recorded at $627. This is significantly lower than the FMR, indicating that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers could potentially earn a higher rent compared to the local market rate. This divergence is particularly noteworthy as it highlights a potential opportunity for landlords to receive above-market rents through the voucher program.
The median home value in ZIP 25420 is $348,374. This figure is indicative of a middle-tier neighborhood when compared to the overall Martinsburg, WV HUD Metro FMR Area, which may have both higher and lower median home values. The home value in 25420 suggests a stable housing market but not necessarily a premium one.
The renter share in ZIP 25420 is 18.0%. This percentage is important because it indicates the proportion of residents who are renters. A higher renter share, especially when coupled with lower home values, can signal a sweet spot for Section 8 properties. In this case, while the renter share is notable, it is not exceptionally high, suggesting a balanced mix between homeowners and renters.
In summary, ZIP 25420 appears to be a value pocket within the Martinsburg, WV HUD Metro FMR Area due to its lower FMR and market rent rates. It offers landlords a chance to benefit from the Section 8 program without facing the challenges of extremely low home values or an overwhelming number of renters. This makes it a solid choice for those interested in Section 8 investments, providing a balance between affordability and market stability.
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.