Location: Wheeling, WV | Metro: Wheeling, 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $850 | $67,189 | 1.27% | A |
| 2BR | $1,040 | $102,570 | 1.01% | B |
| 3BR | $1,340 | $155,338 | 0.86% | C |
| 4BR | $1,480 | $182,883 | 0.81% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 26041, located in Moundsville, WV, and part of the Wheeling, WV-OH MSA metro area, presents itself as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 in this ZIP code is set at $890, while the market rent stands at $852. This creates a positive spread of $38 per unit, which can be leveraged to ensure steady cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 26041 is $126,259. Given that the market rent is slightly below the FMR, landlords can expect to receive a higher rental income than the local market rate when participating in the Section 8 program. This differential can be crucial in covering mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, thereby providing a reliable financial cushion.
A cash-flow anchor is essential for any investment portfolio as it stabilizes returns and provides predictability. ZIP 26041's characteristics align well with this role due to the guaranteed income from the Section 8 program. The 0.2% price-cut share and the N/A-day Days on Market (DOM) suggest a stable housing market with minimal need for price reductions or extended listing periods, further supporting the cash-flow anchor designation.
Additionally, the ZIP code has a 23.6% renter share, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties. While this figure is not exceptionally high, it ensures a consistent tenant pool. The median income of $54,419 suggests that tenants in this area are likely to meet the eligibility criteria for the Section 8 program, ensuring a steady stream of qualified applicants.
In conclusion, ZIP 26041 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The positive spread between the FMR and market rent, combined with the stable housing market conditions, makes it an ideal choice for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking reliable financial performance.
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.