Location: Pleasants 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 | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,462 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,637 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,768 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $940 | $163,178 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,200 | $222,099 | 0.54% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 26184, located in Waverly, WV within Pleasants County, presents an interesting profile when compared to other ZIP codes in the county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26184 is set at $980 for fiscal year 2024, which is notably higher than the market rent figure of $649. This discrepancy suggests that there might be a regulatory or policy-driven reason for the higher FMR, potentially making it a target area for Section 8 housing assistance.
The median home value in ZIP 26184 stands at $187,108, which is lower than what one might expect in a premium sub-market but could still be considered average or slightly above average for the region. The renter share in this ZIP is 9.1%, indicating that a relatively small portion of residents are renters, which contrasts with the higher FMR. Typically, a higher renter share with lower home values can signal a potential value pocket for landlords and investors looking to capitalize on government-subsidized rental programs like Section 8.
Given the specific figures, ZIP 26184 appears to be a mid-tier neighborhood with characteristics that make it a sweet spot for Section 8 properties. The combination of a high FMR, a modest market rent, and a lower-than-average home value, alongside a slightly elevated renter share, suggests that landlords and small-portfolio investors could find opportunities here, especially if they focus on properties eligible for Section 8 subsidies. This ZIP code offers a balance between affordability and access to government rental support, making it a strategic location for those interested in this type of investment.
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.