Location: Knox County, OH | Metro: Columbus, OH HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $850 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,601 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,936 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,033 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,040 | $291,734 | 0.36% | F |
| 3BR | $1,300 | $406,031 | 0.32% | F |
| 4BR | $1,380 | $500,927 | 0.28% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP 43011, Centerburg, OH, stands at $90,121. Given the market rate for rent is $864 according to the Census ACS, it appears that the average household could indeed afford the rent. However, the comparison to the voucher payment standard of $1,050 (FMR zip FY 2024) presents a different scenario.
With only 10.0% of the 6,594 residents being renters, competition among landlords is relatively low. This means that securing tenants might be less challenging compared to densely populated areas where rental demand is higher.
The disparity between the market rate ($864) and the voucher payment standard ($1,050) indicates an affordability gap for both landlords and tenants. Landlords accepting vouchers receive a higher rate than the market suggests, which can be beneficial for maintaining property standards and covering expenses. On the other hand, tenants using vouchers have a financial advantage, as the $1,050 voucher amount exceeds the typical market rate.
For landlords considering whether to accept vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants, the takeaway is clear. Accepting vouchers can provide a steady stream of income above the market rate, mitigating risks associated with vacancy and lower market rates. However, it also means adhering to certain regulations and requirements that come with participating in the Section 8 program. Landlords should weigh these factors against their own business goals and the local rental market dynamics.
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.