Location: Wheeling, WV | Metro: Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH MSA
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 | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,821 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,203 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $900 | $70,545 | 1.28% | A |
| 2BR | $1,100 | $114,561 | 0.96% | C |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $178,773 | 0.79% | D |
| 4BR | $1,570 | $262,596 | 0.6% | F |
| 5BR | $1,821 | $365,317 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 26003 (Wheeling, WV) on the yield and stability axes reveals a market that offers a balanced opportunity for both yield and stability. On the yield axis, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $970, which is notably higher than the market rent of $891. This indicates a potential for above-average rental income, making it attractive for investors looking to maximize their returns.
However, the median home value of $156,577 suggests that the property values themselves are moderate, indicating that while rental yields can be good, the appreciation in property value may not be as high as in other markets. This places the area somewhat in the middle regarding pure yield potential.
Moving to the stability axis, Wheeling has a 32.5% rate of renters, which is a significant portion of the population but not overwhelmingly high. The days on market (DOM) average of 35 days shows a relatively quick turnover in rental listings, suggesting a stable demand for rentals. Additionally, the median household income of $57,703 provides a reasonable level of financial stability among residents, further supporting the idea that tenants will likely be able to afford rent payments consistently.
Considering these factors, ZIP 26003 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability market. The higher FMR compared to market rent ensures decent cash flow, while the moderate DOM and income levels indicate a stable tenant pool. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, this balance makes Wheeling a reliable investment option where they can expect consistent returns without the volatility often associated with high-yield markets.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.