Location: Tucker County, WV | Metro: Tucker 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 | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,280 | $171,442 | 0.75% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 cap rate analysis for ZIP code 26269 provides a clear picture of potential rental yields under government-subsidized versus market conditions. Using the Federal Market Rent (FMR) figure of $890 per month for a two-bedroom apartment in fiscal year 2026, we can annualize this to $10,680. This represents a gross yield of approximately 6.9% when compared to the median home value of $154,867.
Contrastingly, the market rent figure of $442 per month for a two-bedroom unit, based on Census ACS data, annualizes to $5,304. This equates to a gross yield of roughly 3.4% relative to the same median home value. Given these two scenarios, it's evident that the Section 8 FMR offers a significantly higher gross yield than the prevailing market rent.
However, the decision on which scenario is more realistic hinges on several factors, including the local demand for Section 8 properties and the difficulty in finding tenants. The renter density of 3.6% suggests a relatively low proportion of renters in the area, which might indicate challenges in attracting and retaining tenants, especially those participating in the Section 8 program. Additionally, the N/A-day DOM (days on market) implies incomplete data regarding how quickly rental units are typically filled, adding another layer of uncertainty.
In conclusion, while the Section 8 FMR presents a more attractive gross yield at 6.9%, the actual feasibility of achieving this yield must be considered in light of the local rental market dynamics and tenant acquisition challenges. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should carefully weigh these factors before making investment decisions.
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.