Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26137 - 2027

Investment Score for ZIP 26137

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	$710
1 Bedroom	$780
2 Bedrooms	$940
3 Bedrooms	$1,270
4 Bedrooms	$1,300
5 Bedrooms	$1,508
6 Bedrooms	$1,689
7 Bedrooms	$1,824
8 Bedrooms	$1,915

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
3BR	$1,270	$121,313	1.05%	B

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Based on the available data, the analysis for ZIP Code 26137, which includes Big Springs, WV, focuses on the 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 $870, while the market rent remains unspecified, indicating a lack of recent data. However, historical data suggests that market rents in this region are significantly lower, often under $200 per month for properties with three or more bedrooms, including utilities.

The disparity between the FMR and the market rent is substantial. In dollar terms, the FMR exceeds the market rent by approximately $670, representing an increase of around 335%. This significant gap means that voucher tenants can effectively cover a large portion of the rent, making it a favorable scenario for landlords and small-portfolio investors.

The low median income of $26,098 in ZIP 26137 further underscores the importance of housing vouchers for many residents. With only 5.1% of the population being renters and a median home value of $101,210, the housing market is predominantly owner-occupied. The high voucher coverage rate translates to higher occupancy stability and reduced vacancy risks for landlords who accept Section 8 tenants.

In conclusion, the gap between FMR and market rent in ZIP 26137 makes it a lucrative opportunity for yield-focused investments. Voucher tenants provide a reliable source of income, ensuring that landlords receive a rate closer to the FMR despite the actual market conditions. This analysis is anchored in the context of a community where the majority of residents own their homes, and those who do rent face significant financial challenges.

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.