Location: Morgantown, WV | Metro: Morgantown, WV MSA
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 | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $990 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,105 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $990 | $192,135 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $1,200 | $250,375 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $1,500 | $312,132 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 26525, located in Bruceton Mills, WV, is situated within the Morgantown, WV MSA metro area. Its Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2024 is set at $930, while the actual market rent is slightly lower at $858. The median home value in this ZIP is notably low at $72,690, and it has an above-average renter share of 11.9%.
Comparatively, typical ZIP codes within the Morgantown, WV MSA have higher home values and potentially higher rents. The FMR of $930 aligns closely with what landlords can expect to receive through HUD's housing assistance programs, but the market rent being $858 suggests that landlords might find themselves with some flexibility in pricing.
The combination of a below-average home value and a relatively high renter share indicates that 26525 could be considered a value pocket within its metro area. This makes it an attractive location for landlords who are interested in serving the needs of low-income renters, particularly those participating in Section 8 programs.
Landlords and small-portfolio investors should take note of the following:
In conclusion, ZIP code 26525 presents a unique opportunity for landlords looking to engage with a community that has a high concentration of renters and relatively affordable property costs, making it a strategic choice for those focused on Section 8 investments within the Morgantown, WV MSA.
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.