Location: Summers County, WV | Metro: Summers County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,601 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,936 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,033 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market in ZIP code 25966, located in Summers County, WV, presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges for landlords and small-portfolio investors. According to the latest HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) data for fiscal year 2026, the FMR for the Summers County metro area is set at $870. This figure represents the maximum amount that voucher holders can pay towards their monthly rent. However, without specific market rent data for ZIP 25966, it's crucial to consider the broader context of Summers County's rental market.
The median home value in this area is also not available, which makes deriving an exact rent-to-price ratio challenging. Nevertheless, given the FMR of $870, we can infer that voucher tenants will likely cashflow at this rate, assuming the local market rents do not significantly exceed this figure. In rural areas like Summers County, market rents tend to be lower compared to urban centers, suggesting that the FMR is closely aligned with actual rental prices.
Investors should be aware that the financial viability of Section 8 properties often hinges on the condition and location of the units. In ZIP 25966, landlords may find that voucher tenants cashflow at the FMR when renting out well-maintained, desirable units. For less premium units, landlords might experience marginal cashflow, requiring careful management to ensure profitability. The lack of specific market rent data means that investors must conduct thorough local research to accurately gauge the rental landscape.
While the median days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that required price cuts are not available, these metrics would typically provide insight into the local real estate market's health and the balance between renting and buying. In the absence of such data, investors should focus on the stability offered by Section 8 tenancy, which provides a reliable source of income through government-backed vouchers.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 25966 is likely cashflow. Given the alignment between the FMR and probable local market rents, landlords can expect steady, predictable income from voucher tenants. This makes Section 8 properties an attractive investment for those seeking consistent returns in a stable, rural market environment.
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.