Location: Nicholas County, WV | Metro: Greenbrier 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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $730 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,842 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,130 | $69,879 | 1.62% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 26261, located within the Nicholas County, WV metro area, exhibits several characteristics that distinguish it from other ZIP codes in the county. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2026 is set at $870, which is notably higher than the market rent of $677. This indicates that while the government's rental assistance program aims to cover a higher amount, the actual market conditions suggest a lower average rent.
The median home value in ZIP 26261 stands at $73,147, which is likely below the typical home values found in other parts of Nicholas County. This could be an indicator of a value pocket, where property values are relatively low compared to surrounding areas. However, to make a definitive comparison, we would need the median home values for other ZIP codes in the county.
A key metric to consider is the 15.4% renter share in ZIP 26261. This percentage is significant as it suggests a notable portion of residents are renters. In combination with the lower market rent and the disparity between FMR and market rent, this could signal a potential sweet spot for Section 8 properties. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of this trend as it may indicate a strong demand for affordable housing units.
To further contextualize ZIP 26261 within the Nicholas County, WV metro, we can infer that it leans towards being a value pocket. The lower home values and the higher proportion of renters suggest that this area might attract tenants who rely on rental assistance programs. This makes it an attractive location for those looking to manage Section 8 properties, given the potential for steady occupancy rates.
However, it's important to recognize that without specific data on the other ZIP codes in Nicholas County, this analysis is based on the relative figures provided for ZIP 26261. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, understanding these dynamics can help in making informed decisions about where to invest in the Nicholas County market.
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.