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 | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,160 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,428 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,549 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,430 | $189,096 | 0.76% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 26590, located within the Morgantown, WV MSA, serves as a strong cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1090, which is a reliable figure for calculating rental income. Given that the market data for this area is currently unavailable, the FMR provides a stable benchmark for rent expectations.
The median home value in ZIP 26590 stands at $154,046, making it an affordable area for investment. This figure suggests that property acquisition costs are relatively low compared to other markets, allowing for a higher margin of profitability when managed correctly. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can leverage this to ensure consistent cash flow from their properties.
While there is limited data on appreciation plays and diversifiers, the available metrics point towards ZIP 26590 being most suitable as a cash-flow anchor. The N/A% price-cut share and N/A-day days on market (DOM) indicate a lack of significant appreciation potential based on recent sales data. However, the 6.4% renter share and median income of $101,513 provide a steady demand for rental properties and a reliable tenant pool capable of meeting rent obligations.
In conclusion, ZIP 26590 offers a solid foundation for generating predictable cash flows within a Section 8 portfolio. Its established FMR and reasonable median home values make it an attractive option for investors looking to stabilize their financial outcomes through consistent rental income.
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.