Location: Randolph County, WV | Metro: Randolph 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 | $150,024 | 0.81% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 26278 is situated in a rural area with a small population of 622 residents, where 18.7% of the inhabitants are renters. The median household income in this region stands at $54,604, indicating a modest economic base. The median home value is recorded at $129,242, which suggests that homeownership is relatively affordable compared to many other areas across the country.
In terms of rental economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $930. However, there is no specific data available for the market rent within ZIP 26278 itself, making it difficult to compare against local market rates. This lack of precise local data can be attributed to the limited size and scope of the rental market in such a sparsely populated area.
Given these conditions, ZIP 26278 would likely suit a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The low percentage of renters and the absence of detailed local market data suggest that opportunities for significant property renovations or upgrades might be constrained. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should focus on properties that qualify for Section 8 vouchers, as they can rely on the government's FMR guidelines to ensure steady rental income without the need for active market intervention or extensive property management efforts.
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.