Location: Mason County, WV | Metro: Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH 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 | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,868 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,259 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,372 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,450 | $188,232 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 25520 presents a market in motion, characterized by a distinct balance between rental and ownership dynamics. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $960 for the fiscal year 2024, it indicates a level playing field for both renters and owners. The lack of available data on market rent suggests that the area might not be extensively covered by commercial real estate surveys, which could mean that the local rental market is less volatile or less tracked compared to larger urban centers.
The median home value of $155,633 places this ZIP code firmly in the affordable range, attracting a mix of first-time buyers and investors looking for stable returns. The absence of data on price-cut share and days on market (DOM) implies that the market may not have seen significant fluctuations in recent times, suggesting stability rather than rapid changes in property values or rental rates.
A notable feature of ZIP 25520 is the 14.2% renter share, which is relatively low. This percentage reflects a higher tendency towards homeownership, indicating that long-term housing pressures may be less pronounced here compared to areas with a higher renter share. However, it also means that there is a smaller pool of potential tenants, which can influence the rental market's resilience to economic downturns. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider the lower renter share as a factor that could impact the availability of steady rental income.
The dynamics of ZIP 25520 suggest a market where supply may slightly outpace demand, given the affordable nature of the homes and the relatively low renter share. This balance can create opportunities for investors but also requires careful consideration of the local economy and job market to ensure sustained occupancy and value retention. For landlords, understanding these dynamics is crucial in setting competitive rents and maintaining a desirable occupancy rate.
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.