Location: Weirton-Steubenville, 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 | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $770 | $60,484 | 1.27% | A |
| 2BR | $1,000 | $113,203 | 0.88% | C |
| 3BR | $1,290 | $163,492 | 0.79% | D |
| 4BR | $1,510 | $177,002 | 0.85% | C |
| 5BR | $1,752 | $227,696 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In Weirton, WV (ZIP 26062), the real estate market presents a unique set of conditions that landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider. The median home value stands at $146,986, indicating a relatively affordable market. This is further supported by the fact that only 0.2% of listings have been reduced, suggesting that sellers are maintaining their asking prices, which points to a stable pricing environment.
The median days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A suggests that homes are selling quickly, often before reaching typical DOM metrics. This rapid turnover rate indicates strong buyer interest and supports the notion that pricing power remains with sellers. For landlords and investors, this means that rental properties can be priced competitively without significant reductions, and there is potential for steady, if not increasing, rental income.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26062 in fiscal year 2024 is projected to be $870, while the current market rent is approximately $743 according to Census ACS data. This gap signals an opportunity for landlords to gradually increase rents towards the FMR level, aligning with the expected rise in rental values. However, it's important to note that any rent increases should be implemented cautiously to avoid tenant turnover and associated costs.
Long-term investors in Weirton should consider the realistic appreciation thesis. Given the stable median home value and the low percentage of price reductions, it's unlikely that property values will experience significant growth over the next 12-24 months. Instead, the market setup implies a scenario where appreciation is modest, driven primarily by inflationary pressures rather than robust demand growth. The key to success in this market will be maintaining competitive rents and ensuring property upkeep to retain tenants and preserve asset value.
To summarize, the combination of a stable median home value, quick sales, and a positive rent differential suggests a balanced market where landlords can maintain and slightly increase rents. However, appreciation expectations should be tempered, focusing instead on cash flow stability and gradual rent adjustments.
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.