Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26039 - 2027

Location: Wheeling, WV | Metro: Wheeling, WV-OH MSA

Investment Score for ZIP 26039

N/A

Monthly Rent (2BR)

$1,030

Median Price (2BR)

$N/A

1% Rule

Annual Yield

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$730
1 Bedroom	$850
2 Bedrooms	$1,030
3 Bedrooms	$1,330
4 Bedrooms	$1,460
5 Bedrooms	$1,694
6 Bedrooms	$1,897
7 Bedrooms	$2,049
8 Bedrooms	$2,151

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
3BR	$1,330	$161,493	0.82%	C

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

493

Median Household Income

$57,800

Housing Units

255

Renter Percentage

28.3%

Occupancy Rate

72.2%

Renter Occupied

The ZIP code 26039, located in West Virginia, offers a unique blend of rural charm and economic stability, making it an attractive market for real estate investment, particularly in the rental sector. The area benefits from a mix of employment opportunities and a moderate cost of living, which supports a steady demand for affordable housing.

Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26039 in fiscal year 2024: The FMR stands at $1050, indicating the maximum amount that federal programs will pay for housing in the area.
Market rent: According to Census ACS data, the average market rent is $1,036, slightly below the FMR but still reflective of a stable rental market.
Median home value: At $140,483, the median home value is relatively low compared to national averages, providing opportunities for both homeownership and rental investments.
Renter share: With 28.3% of residents being renters, there is a notable segment of the population relying on rental properties, suggesting a consistent demand for rental units.
Median income: The median income in ZIP 26039 is $57,800, which can support modest rental prices without straining tenants' budgets.

The combination of a fair market rent just above the average market rent, a low median home value, and a significant renter population points to a balanced rental market with potential for steady returns. Investors should focus on properties that offer good value and are priced competitively within the $1,036 average market rent range. Given the median income level, targeting affordable housing options could be particularly advantageous. Overall, ZIP 26039 presents a viable opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to enter a stable, yet growing, rental market in West Virginia.

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.