Location: Lewis County, WV | Metro: Doddridge County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market in ZIP code 26411 presents a dynamic scenario that is indicative of current housing pressures and future trends. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $930 for fiscal year 2026, the area shows a higher threshold for rental prices compared to the current market rent of $823, as reported by the Census American Community Survey (ACS). This suggests a potential upward trend in rental values, driven by factors such as increasing demand or cost of living adjustments.
The median home value of $175,971 indicates a relatively affordable market for homeownership. However, the snapshot lacks detailed information on the percentage of homes offered at a price cut or the days on market (DOM) for listings, which would provide clearer insights into the balance between supply and demand. Nonetheless, the fact that the FMR exceeds the current market rent points towards a market where demand might be starting to catch up with supply, pushing rents closer to fair market levels.
A renter share of 28.3% is noteworthy. In a context where a significant portion of residents choose to rent rather than buy, it signals sustained long-term housing pressure. Rental markets thrive when there's a high proportion of renters, often due to economic conditions that make homeownership less accessible or desirable. This could mean that many individuals in ZIP 26411 find renting a more viable option, possibly because of job instability, student populations, or other demographic factors that favor transient living situations.
In summary, ZIP 26411 appears to be a market in flux, with rental prices approaching fair market rates and a notable share of renters indicating ongoing housing pressure. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should closely monitor these dynamics, particularly the relationship between FMR and market rent, as it may suggest areas ripe for investment or adjustment in rental strategies.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.