Location: Webster County, WV | Metro: Nicholas 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,485 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,663 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,796 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,886 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,140 | $98,516 | 1.16% | B |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 26208 in the upcoming fiscal year 2026 is set at $880. This figure represents the payment standard for Section 8 rentals, which means it is the maximum amount the government will pay to cover a tenant's rent. It does not represent your rent price; rather, it is the ceiling on the subsidy you can receive.
To put this into perspective, the average rent in ZIP 26208, according to recent Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, is $760. This indicates that the FMR is higher than the typical market rate, potentially making Section 8 properties more financially viable for landlords.
The renter share in this area stands at 13.1%, meaning that a significant portion of the population relies on renting to secure housing. This suggests a steady demand for rental properties, including those participating in the Section 8 program. With the FMR being higher than the average local rent, there is a good chance that you can attract tenants who qualify for Section 8 assistance.
When considering the purchase of a property for a Section 8 rental, the median household income of $80,088 in ZIP 26208 can guide your acquisition costs. This figure implies that the local economy supports higher-end properties, but it also means that many potential tenants might be looking for affordable housing options. The FMR helps ensure that the rent you charge is reasonable and within the financial reach of these tenants.
Before committing to a Section 8 rental, verify that the property meets all the necessary inspection criteria. The Housing Quality Standards (HQS) are stringent and must be adhered to for eligibility. Ensuring compliance with HQS upfront saves time and resources later, allowing you to focus on managing your investment effectively.
In summary, the FMR of $880 provides a clear benchmark for the subsidy you can expect. Given the average local rent of $760 and the 13.1% renter share, the demand for your property should be strong. The median household income of $80,088 reflects a robust local economy, yet still leaves room for affordable housing needs. Ensure your property passes the required inspections to avoid any complications once you've decided to proceed.
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.