Location: Mingo County, WV | Metro: Mingo 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 | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,589 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,922 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,120 | $74,454 | 1.5% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP 25678 in Matewan, WV reveals a significant gap between the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2026, the HUD FMR stands at $870, while the Census ACS reports the market rent at $396. Given these figures, voucher tenants would cashflow at FMR, meaning that landlords could expect a positive cashflow when renting units at the HUD FMR rate.
The median home value in ZIP 25678 is $69,253, which provides a basis for calculating the rent-to-price ratio. Using the HUD FMR of $870, the rent-to-price ratio is approximately 1.26%, indicating that rental income is relatively low compared to property values. However, this ratio can still be attractive for investors seeking stable, long-term rental income.
The data does not provide specific median days on market (DOM) or percentage of price cuts for the area. Therefore, it is challenging to assess the exact impact on rent-versus-buy dynamics. However, given the low median home value and the positive cashflow potential from Section 8 vouchers, the stability of rental income appears to be a strong angle for investors.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 25678 is likely stability. With a guaranteed rental income through Section 8 vouchers and a relatively low median home value, investors can secure steady returns without the volatility often associated with fluctuating market rents.
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.