Location: Hardy County, WV | Metro: Hardy 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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,717 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,077 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,181 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,080 | $275,943 | 0.39% | F |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $351,833 | 0.37% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 26810 in Lost City, WV, reveals a unique set of conditions that can inform investment decisions. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Hardy County County, Hardy County, WV metro area, for fiscal year 2026, is set at $930. This figure represents the maximum amount landlords can charge for rent when renting to voucher tenants.
Unfortunately, specific market rent data for ZIP 26810 is currently unavailable, which makes direct comparisons challenging. However, given the HUD FMR of $930, it is likely that voucher tenants will only cashflow at this rate with premium units. This suggests that landlords need to ensure their properties are well-maintained and offer amenities that justify higher rents within the FMR limit to attract and retain voucher tenants effectively.
The median home value in ZIP 26810 stands at $272,524. Using this figure, we can derive a rough estimate of the rent-to-price ratio. Assuming a standard mortgage payment based on the median home value and typical financing terms, the monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $1,150, including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance. This calculation implies that the $930 FMR is below the average mortgage payment, indicating that landlords relying solely on FMR may struggle to cover costs without additional income sources or premium unit strategies.
The lack of specific market rent data means that the Days on Market (DOM) and price-cut share percentages are also not available. These metrics are crucial for understanding the local rental market's health and how quickly properties are rented out. Without these figures, it is difficult to provide a comprehensive picture of the rent-versus-buy dynamics in Lost City, WV.
The strongest investor angle in this market is stability. Given the limited availability of market-specific data, the consistent FMR provided by HUD offers a reliable benchmark for rental income. This predictability is particularly valuable for landlords and small-portfolio investors who are looking to mitigate risk and maintain steady cash flows 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.