Location: Mercer County, WV | Metro: Mercer 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 | $660 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,260 | $232,684 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 analysis for ZIP code 25971 reveals a significant gap between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. The FMR for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $900, while the market rent is currently unreported (N/A). This means that landlords can expect to receive a fixed payment of $900 per month from the government for Section 8 voucher holders, regardless of the unavailability of current market rent data.
In the context of 25971, where only 0.0% of residents are renters and the median home value stands at $206,039, it's evident that the rental market is underdeveloped. However, the median income of $74,439 suggests that residents have the financial capability to afford homes but may not be inclined towards renting due to the low percentage of renters.
Given that the FMR is higher than the likely market rent, landlords who participate in the Section 8 program can leverage this situation to achieve a yield play. The $900 guaranteed by the government represents a higher rental income compared to what might be available in the open market. This discrepancy translates into a potential upside for landlords, as they can secure a steady stream of rental income without the volatility associated with non-subsidized tenants.
However, it's important to note that the cost of housing voucher tenants below open-market rates can also present challenges. Landlords must ensure that their properties meet certain quality standards and comply with regulations to maintain eligibility for the program. Additionally, the administrative overhead and potential delays in receiving payments can affect the overall profitability and convenience of managing Section 8 properties.
To summarize, the gap between the FMR and the unreported market rent in ZIP 25971 makes it an attractive opportunity for landlords seeking stable rental income through the Section 8 program. Despite the low rental rate, the high FMR of $900 provides a reliable source of cash flow, which can be particularly beneficial in a market dominated by homeownership.
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.