Location: Huntington-Ashland, WV | Metro: Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,659 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,858 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,107 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 25669 presents several challenges for landlords considering participation in the Section 8 program. Tenant turnover is a significant concern, with the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 set at $920, which is lower than the prevailing market rent. This discrepancy can lead to higher tenant mobility, as participants might seek more affordable housing options outside the program. Additionally, vacancy exposure is a risk due to the lack of data on days on market (DOM), indicating potential difficulties in finding tenants quickly. The deferred maintenance exposure is another issue, as the median income of $43,333 suggests limited financial resources for residents, potentially leading to more wear and tear on properties without timely repairs.
Despite these risks, the high renter share of 18.2% in ZIP 25669 indicates a robust demand for rental properties, which typically translates into higher interest in Section 8 vouchers. A larger pool of renters generally ensures a steady flow of potential tenants, mitigating some of the vacancy concerns. Moreover, the presence of many renters often correlates with a higher concentration of voucher holders, providing a reliable stream of tenants who meet the income requirements and are committed to stable housing.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.