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 | $980 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,506 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,807 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,032 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,184 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,290 | $393,701 | 0.33% | F |
| 3BR | $1,770 | $437,109 | 0.4% | F |
| 4BR | $2,160 | $552,877 | 0.39% | F |
| 5BR | $2,506 | $692,106 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 25443, located in Shepherdstown, WV, hinges on its yield and stability metrics. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,160 for fiscal year 2024, which is higher than the local market rent of $1,099. This suggests a relatively strong rental yield potential. However, the median home value of $477,937 is significantly above the average market rent, indicating that property appreciation and capital gains might be a larger component of total returns than rental income alone.
In terms of stability, the ZIP code shows a modest 14.5% of residents as renters, which is lower than many urban areas but still provides a baseline level of demand. The lack of available data on days on market (DOM) makes it difficult to assess how quickly properties can be leased, though typically a low percentage of renters can imply longer leasing periods. The median household income of $111,593 is quite robust, suggesting that tenants are likely to have stable employment and financial situations, thereby reducing the risk of default on rent payments.
Based on these figures, ZIP 25443 does not fit neatly into a high-yield/low-stability "flip-style" market. Instead, it leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone. The higher FMR compared to the market rent implies a decent yield, but the significant gap between the market rent and median home value points to a market where capital appreciation is a key factor. The stable income levels further support the notion of a reliable tenant base, enhancing the overall stability of the rental market in Shepherdstown.
To summarize, the combination of a moderate rental yield and a strong income base makes ZIP 25443 a suitable location for small-portfolio investors looking for steady cash flow and potential long-term appreciation. Landlords should expect a market where rental income is solid but not exceptionally high, and property values are likely to grow over time, supported by the area's economic conditions.
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.