Location: Wetzel County, WV | Metro: Tyler County, WV
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $950 | $96,691 | 0.98% | C |
| 3BR | $1,240 | $139,864 | 0.89% | C |
| 4BR | $1,290 | $160,371 | 0.8% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 26159, located in Paden City, WV, has a population of 2,446 residents, with 15.4% of them being renters. This indicates that the area is primarily homeowner-dominated rather than renter-heavy. The median household income in this ZIP code stands at $66,190, which is notably higher than the market rent of $719 per month.
The typical rent in Paden City consumes approximately 13.6% of the local median income. To calculate this, divide the market rent ($719) by the median household income ($66,190), then multiply by 100 to get the percentage. This figure suggests that renting is relatively affordable compared to the income levels in the area.
However, when we compare the market rent of $719 to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $960 for the metro area, it becomes evident that the rents in Paden City are below the regional average. This discrepancy could indicate a lower cost of living or less demand for rental properties in the area.
In terms of voucher availability, the FMR of $960 provides a benchmark for the maximum allowable rent for Section 8 vouchers. Given that the market rent is significantly lower at $719, there is likely to be a reasonable amount of voucher demand, but it will be constrained by the overall low proportion of renters in the community.
A landlord in ZIP code 26159 should expect tenants who are either using Section 8 vouchers or paying market rent. These tenants will generally have a stable income source, given the median household income of the area. However, the number of voucher holders may be limited due to the relatively high median income compared to the national average, suggesting that many residents can afford market rates without assistance.
To conclude, while there is some demand for rental properties and Section 8 vouchers in Paden City, the primary demographic leans towards homeownership. Landlords should prepare for a mix of subsidized and market-rate tenants, understanding that the overall rental market is smaller in comparison to the number of homeowners.
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.