Location: Webster County, WV | Metro: Webster 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 | $720 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $940 | $66,478 | 1.41% | A |
| 3BR | $1,120 | $87,834 | 1.28% | A |
| 4BR | $1,290 | $102,669 | 1.26% | A |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The renter's landscape in ZIP 26288, Webster Springs, WV, is marked by significant financial constraints. The median income stands at $34,801, which is notably lower than the national average. This income level must cover all living expenses, including housing. The current market rate for rent, according to Census ACS data, is $708 per month. While this figure might seem manageable at first glance, it represents a substantial portion of the average household's income, approximately 25% of the annual median income.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the federal government for the fiscal year 2026 is $870. This means that the actual market rate is below the FMR, indicating that the rental market in Webster Springs is already somewhat affordable. However, the gap between the median income and the FMR highlights the challenge many households face in finding affordable housing without assistance.
With 27.8% of the 3,148 residents being renters, the competition among landlords is likely to be fierce. Landlords who offer rents closer to the market rate of $708 may attract more tenants due to the affordability factor. However, those willing to accept Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) could benefit from a steady stream of income guaranteed by the government, even if the rents are slightly below the market rate but above the actual tenant's contribution.
The takeaway for landlords considering their strategy is clear: while cash-paying tenants might offer a higher monthly rent, accepting vouchers ensures a reliable and stable income source. The government will pay the difference between the tenant's contribution and the FMR, which is $870, thus providing a consistent revenue stream that is less volatile than market rates. For small-portfolio investors, this stability can be crucial in managing cash flow and ensuring long-term investment success.
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.