Location: Marion County, WV | Metro: Marion 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 | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,250 | $125,667 | 0.99% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 26576 in the Marion County, WV metro area reveals a complex but favorable rental environment. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $970 for fiscal year 2026, which is based on the broader metro scope. However, the market rent for the area is currently unavailable, making direct comparisons challenging.
Despite the lack of specific market rent data, the median home value in ZIP 26576 stands at $109,329. This figure can be used to derive the rent-to-price ratio, which is crucial for understanding the investment potential. Assuming an average annual mortgage payment of approximately $4,365 (based on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage at 4%), the monthly mortgage payment would be around $364. With the HUD FMR at $970, the potential monthly cash flow per unit could be estimated at $606 before accounting for maintenance, property management, and other costs. This suggests that voucher tenants would likely cashflow at FMR levels, even considering conservative estimates for additional expenses.
The dynamics between renting and buying in this area are influenced by the relatively low median home value. Although the median days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that have experienced price cuts are not available, these factors typically play a role in determining the stability and growth potential of the real estate market. In the absence of these specifics, it's important to note that the low median home value indicates a market where owning a home might still be more affordable than renting, depending on the interest rates and other economic conditions.
The strongest angle for Section 8 investors in ZIP 26576 is cashflow. Given the HUD FMR and the estimated cost structure, investors can expect positive cash flow from their properties when occupied by voucher tenants, making it an attractive option for those focused on generating consistent income from their investments.
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.