Location: Randolph County, WV | Metro: Barbour 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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,210 | $150,637 | 0.8% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP code 26257, the economics of Section 8 housing can be quite straightforward when understood correctly. The SAFMR (Small Area Fair Market Rent) for a two-bedroom apartment in this specific ZIP code for fiscal year 2026 is set at $930. This figure represents the maximum amount that the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, will pay towards a tenant's rent.
The SAFMR is determined based on local rental market conditions, but unfortunately, the exact local market rent for ZIP 26257 is not available. However, it is important to understand that the SAFMR does not necessarily reflect the average market rent in the area; it is a benchmark used by the program to ensure that rents are reasonable and comparable to the local market.
A landlord who participates in the Section 8 program receives payment from the government for a portion of the rent. The tenant is responsible for paying approximately 30% of their adjusted income towards the rent. For example, if a tenant's monthly income is $1,500, they would pay around $450 toward the rent. The remaining balance, up to the SAFMR of $930, would be covered by the Section 8 voucher.
Additionally, the program includes utility allowances which vary by location and household size. These allowances do not increase the total rent but are meant to cover the cost of utilities for the tenant. If the total rent plus utilities exceeds the SAFMR, the landlord must reduce the rent to ensure compliance with the program.
To illustrate, let's assume the total rent and utilities for a two-bedroom apartment in ZIP 26257 is $1,000. With a tenant paying $450 and the voucher covering $930, the landlord would receive the full $930 from the voucher program, and the tenant would pay an additional $70 out of pocket to cover the total rent and utilities.
The reimbursement gap or surplus occurs when the actual rent charged differs from the SAFMR. In ZIP 26257, if the local market rent is higher than $930, landlords will face a reimbursement gap. Conversely, if the local market rent is lower, landlords might see a surplus. Without the specific local market rent, we cannot calculate the exact gap or surplus, but it is evident that landlords need to align their rent expectations with the SAFMR to avoid financial shortfalls.
In summary, landlords in ZIP 26257 participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive a maximum of $930 per month for a two-bedroom unit. They should factor in the tenant's contribution and any utility allowances to determine the net effect on their rental income. To maximize profitability and avoid financial gaps, landlords should closely monitor the SAFMR and adjust their rents accordingly.
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.