Location: Tyler County, WV | Metro: Parkersburg-Vienna, WV 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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,589 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,922 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,018 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $133,272 | 0.76% | D |
| 3BR | $1,360 | $189,111 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $1,370 | $227,543 | 0.6% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 26170, which encompasses Saint Marys, WV, and its surrounding Tyler County metro area, reveals key insights into the viability of investing in this region through the lens of Section 8 real estate. First, let's examine if the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $950. However, the market rent, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS), stands at $770. This discrepancy suggests that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect a higher rental income compared to the general market, making the rent math favorable.
Moving on to the affordability of acquisitions, the median home value in ZIP 26170 is $161,284. Given the absence of data regarding the number of days on the market (DOM) and the percentage of homes requiring price cuts, it's challenging to provide a comprehensive assessment. Nevertheless, the median home value indicates a relatively low barrier to entry for potential investors looking to acquire properties at a reasonable cost.
The demand for tenants is another critical factor. With a total population of 5,701, the renter share is 15.9%. This translates to approximately 905 renters in the area. While the overall population is modest, the presence of a dedicated renter base ensures a steady demand for rental properties, particularly those that cater to the Section 8 program.
In conclusion, ZIP 26170 presents a favorable environment for Section 8 real estate investment. The higher FMR compared to the market rent provides a financial advantage, while the median home value suggests an affordable acquisition opportunity. Despite the limited data on DOM and price-cut shares, the existing renter demand supports the sustainability of such investments. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider these factors carefully when deciding to invest in this region.
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.