Location: Jefferson County, 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 | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,140 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,819 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,410 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,581 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,480 | $284,417 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $2,020 | $350,700 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $2,430 | $486,139 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Kearneysville, WV, located in ZIP code 25430, is a residential neighborhood with a total population of 8,954. Only 18.8% of residents are renters, indicating a primarily owner-occupied community. The median household income stands at $86,806, which is relatively high, suggesting a middle to upper-middle-class demographic. Median home values in the area are substantial, at $380,512, reflecting a stable housing market where property appreciation is likely.
The rental economics in ZIP 25430 present an interesting opportunity for investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set for the Section 8 program for the fiscal year 2024 is $1,250, while the average market rent, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), is $1,287. This slight premium in market rents over FMR indicates that there is a modest profit margin for landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers, though it also implies that the demand for subsidized housing is slightly below the market rate.
Given these figures, ZIP 25430 would be a suitable location for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For hands-off operators, the steady demand for Section 8 units and the proximity of market rents to FMR ensure a reliable stream of income without the need for extensive property management. Meanwhile, hands-on value-add buyers could leverage the higher median incomes and home values to improve properties and potentially command rents above the FMR, thereby increasing their returns on investment.
In conclusion, ZIP 25430 offers a balanced environment for real estate investors interested in Section 8 properties. It supports a mix of investment strategies, catering to those who prefer passive income through voucher programs and those who seek active management to enhance property values and rental rates.
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.