Location: Webster County, WV | Metro: Upshur County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $720 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,694 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,897 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,049 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,151 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
870 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 26215 in metro FY 2026, indicating the benchmark rental rate for the area. 0.0% represents the renter share in ZIP 26215, suggesting an unusually low proportion of renters compared to homeowners. This statistic highlights a potential challenge for landlords looking to enter the market. However, $83,750 stands as the median income for the region, which is a significant figure that landlords should consider when setting rents. It suggests that tenants in this area have a relatively stable income, making it a potentially secure market for rental properties. The lack of data on market rent and median home value means that direct comparisons between rental and home purchase markets cannot be made easily, but the high median income implies a robust local economy that could support higher rents. Given the absence of data on Days on Market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut shares, it's challenging to assess the speed of property sales and the frequency of price reductions in the area. Yet, landlords can leverage the strong median income to attract tenants willing to pay close to the FMR. In conclusion, while the low renter share poses a hurdle, the high median income and established FMR make ZIP 26215 a viable market for landlords. Verdict: Acceptable for Section 8 participation if rents are set at or below the $870 FMR.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.