Location: Mason County, WV | Metro: Mason County, WV
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,210 | $195,793 | 0.62% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 25502 stands at $78,079, providing a solid financial foundation for households. However, the absence of specific market rate data makes it challenging to assess overall affordability without concrete figures. Despite this, we can analyze the situation based on the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set at $870 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026.
With 19.6% of the 376 residents being renters, there is a notable demand for rental properties. This percentage indicates a smaller pool of potential tenants compared to areas with higher concentrations of renters, which could influence competition among landlords.
The affordability gap between the median income and the FMR suggests that many renters in ZIP 25502 might struggle to find suitable housing at market rates. While the exact market rate is not available, the FMR serves as a benchmark for affordable rents. Households earning the median income would likely be able to afford higher rents than the FMR, but the precise extent depends on other expenses and financial obligations.
For landlords, the takeaway is clear: the competition for tenants is influenced by both the number of renters and the affordability of housing. Voucher holders represent a stable tenant base, as their rent payments are guaranteed up to the FMR of $870. Cash-paying tenants, while potentially offering higher rents, require careful consideration of the local income levels and housing market dynamics.
Landlords should weigh the benefits of accepting Section 8 vouchers against the possibility of attracting cash-paying tenants willing to pay above the FMR. The decision hinges on understanding the local market, the preferences of the resident population, and the balance between stability and potential for higher revenue.
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.