Location: Lewis County, WV | Metro: Lewis 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 | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 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: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $950 | $79,828 | 1.19% | B |
| 3BR | $1,240 | $136,320 | 0.91% | C |
| 4BR | $1,250 | $145,252 | 0.86% | C |
| 5BR | $1,450 | $176,645 | 0.82% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 26452, located in Weston, WV, stands out within Lewis County due to its unique demographic and economic characteristics. With a population of 9,220 residents, 36.1% of whom rent their homes, it reflects a community where a significant portion of the populace relies on rental housing. The median household income in this area is $51,695, while the median home value is notably higher at $109,580. This disparity suggests that homeownership is more expensive relative to the average income, potentially making rental properties more attractive to lower-income families.
The voucher economics in ZIP 26452 present an interesting opportunity for landlords. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $880, which is significantly above the current market rent of $738, based on Census ACS data. This means that landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers can expect to receive higher rents compared to the typical market rate, thereby increasing their profitability. The difference of $142 between the FMR and the market rent indicates a strong incentive for property owners to participate in the Section 8 program.
When analyzing the data signature of ZIP 26452, it reads as stable. The relatively high median home value and the substantial number of renters indicate a balanced housing market where both homeowners and renters coexist. Moreover, the fact that the FMR is set above the current market rent suggests that the government is aiming to support affordable housing without disrupting the local economy. For small-portfolio investors looking to enter the rental market, ZIP 26452 presents a favorable environment, especially if they consider accepting Section 8 vouchers to benefit from the higher rental rates stipulated by the FMR.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.