Location: Summers County, WV | Metro: Raleigh County, 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 | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,260 | $240,106 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 25841, located in Summers County, WV, reveals several key points that should inform investment decisions. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) as determined by HUD for this zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $930 per month. However, the comparison against the local market rent is not possible due to the lack of available data, which suggests that the local rental market may be less active or less documented compared to other areas.
In the absence of specific market rent figures, we can infer that voucher tenants will likely cashflow at the FMR rate. This means that landlords can expect to cover their costs, including mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance, with the voucher amount without significant financial strain. The median home value in ZIP 25841 stands at $206,370, which allows us to calculate a rent-to-price ratio. Assuming an average annual mortgage interest rate of 5%, the monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $1,030, making the rent-to-price ratio quite favorable for landlords who own homes outright or have low mortgage rates.
The dynamics of days on market (DOM) and price-cut share are not applicable here due to the lack of data. However, these metrics typically provide insight into the health of the local housing market, indicating how quickly properties sell and at what price point. For Section 8 investors, the stability of the rental income is a critical factor, given the predictable nature of government-backed vouchers.
The strongest angle for investors in ZIP 25841 is stability. With the HUD FMR providing a reliable income stream, landlords can expect consistent cash flow from voucher tenants, making it an attractive option for those seeking a steady investment return. While appreciation and cash flow are important considerations, the predictability of Section 8 vouchers offers a level of security that is particularly valuable in a region where broader economic indicators might be less robust.
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.