Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26818 - 2027

Location: Hardy County, WV | Metro: Hardy County, WV

Investment Score for ZIP 26818

N/A

Monthly Rent (2BR)

$940

Median Price (2BR)

$N/A

1% Rule

Annual Yield

Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size	Monthly FMR
Studio	$710
1 Bedroom	$800
2 Bedrooms	$940
3 Bedrooms	$1,140
4 Bedrooms	$1,350
5 Bedrooms	$1,566
6 Bedrooms	$1,754
7 Bedrooms	$1,894
8 Bedrooms	$1,989

Investment Analysis by Bedroom Size

Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)

Bedrooms	Monthly FMR	Median Price	1% Rule	Grade
3BR	$1,140	$256,058	0.45%	F

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

Population

1,616

Median Household Income

$42,173

Housing Units

549

Renter Percentage

38.6%

Occupancy Rate

100.0%

Renter Occupied

212

The ZIP code 26818, located in West Virginia, is a region characterized by modest economic conditions and a significant portion of renters. This area offers opportunities for real estate investors, particularly those interested in the Section 8 housing voucher program, which can provide steady rental income.

Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26818 in fiscal year 2024: The FMR is set at $1110, indicating the maximum amount that a Section 8 tenant can pay for a two-bedroom apartment, which is crucial for landlords aiming to participate in the program.
Market Rent: According to the latest Census ACS data, the average market rent in ZIP 26818 is $703, suggesting that properties priced around the FMR level could attract tenants who benefit from the Section 8 program.
Median Home Value: At $230,608, the median home value in this ZIP code is relatively low, making it accessible for both purchase and rental investments.
Renter Share: With 38.6% of residents being renters, there is a substantial demand for affordable rental housing, aligning well with the goals of Section 8 properties.
Days on Market (DOM): Although the data for DOM is listed as N/A, the combination of a moderate median income and a high renter share suggests that rental properties could be quickly occupied once listed.
Median Income: The median household income of $42,173 reflects the economic profile of potential tenants, underscoring the importance of affordable housing options in this area.

In summary, ZIP 26818 presents a viable market for Section 8-focused real estate investments, with a fair market rent of $1110 and average market rents at $703, which are within reach for many local residents earning the median income. Given the 38.6% renter share and the accessibility of property values at $230,608, landlords can expect stable occupancy rates and a consistent stream of income. While specific days on market data is unavailable, the overall economic indicators suggest a favorable environment for rental properties that cater to the needs of lower-income families.

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.