Location: Pendleton County, WV | Metro: Pendleton County, WV
| 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 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 26804 presents a unique blend of yield and stability that can be advantageous for both landlords and small-portfolio investors. With a Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $870 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026, compared to the market rate of $773, there is a clear opportunity for higher rental yields. The significant difference between the FMR and the market rate suggests that properties could potentially command rents above the average, increasing profitability.
The median home value in ZIP 26804 stands at $187,214, which is a key figure when considering the capital investment required. This figure, combined with the FMR, indicates a favorable ratio for rental property investments. However, the ZIP code also exhibits some characteristics that might affect stability. For instance, only 28.0% of the population are renters, which could imply a smaller pool of potential tenants. Additionally, the average daily days on market (DOM) data is not available, making it difficult to assess how quickly properties can be leased.
The median household income in the area is $31,000, which provides insight into the economic stability of the tenant base. While this income level is relatively low, it aligns with the rental rates, suggesting that the local market can support these prices. Investors should note that the lower income levels may require more scrutiny in tenant selection to ensure stable cash flows.
In summary, ZIP 26804 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone. The higher FMR compared to the market rate offers a decent yield, while the median income supports the rental prices. However, the relatively low percentage of renters and the unknown leasing speed pose challenges to stability. Investors should focus on properties that can be rented at or near the FMR of $870, leveraging the $187,214 median home value to maximize returns. Tenant screening processes should be robust to mitigate the risks associated with the lower income levels.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.