Location: Pendleton County, WV | Metro: Pendleton 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 | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,462 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,637 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,768 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $940 | $176,029 | 0.53% | F |
| 3BR | $1,250 | $243,124 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26802, Brandywine, WV, is set at $870 for metro fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard for landlords participating in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. It's important to note that this is not the rent you would charge your tenants directly; it's the maximum amount the government will pay toward a tenant's rent.
In comparison, the average rent in Brandywine, as reported by the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, is $778. This suggests that the FMR is slightly higher than the market rate, which can be beneficial for landlords as it may cover more of the property's operating costs.
With 19.8% of residents being renters, there is a moderate demand for rental properties in the area. This percentage indicates that nearly one in five people in Brandywine are looking for a place to rent, making it a viable market for new Section 8 rentals.
The median home value in Brandywine is approximately $210,495. This figure can help you estimate the acquisition cost if you're considering purchasing a property for Section 8 rental purposes. However, remember that the FMR does not directly correlate with the purchase price of a home. Instead, it is used to determine the rent subsidy amount.
To ensure the property meets Section 8 requirements, you must verify that the rent is reasonable compared to similar units in the area. The Housing Authority will use the FMR to assess whether the rent you propose is fair and competitive. If your proposed rent exceeds the FMR, you may need to adjust it downward to comply with the program guidelines.
Participating in the Section 8 program can provide steady rental income and reduce vacancy rates, but it also comes with regulatory oversight. Ensure that the property is in good condition and meets all safety and maintenance standards before applying for the program. Once approved, the government will pay up to $870 per month towards the rent, helping to stabilize cash flow and manage expenses effectively.
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.