Location: Columbus, 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 | $1,060 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,830 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,123 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,378 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,568 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,696 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,350 | $320,038 | 0.42% | F |
| 3BR | $1,610 | $411,307 | 0.39% | F |
| 4BR | $1,830 | $564,648 | 0.32% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 43046, located in Millersport, OH, within the Columbus, OH HUD Metro FMR Area, presents itself as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This classification is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent.
The FMR for ZIP 43046 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,290. However, the current market rent stands at $1,030. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive a higher rent payment than what the market demands, thereby securing a steady and reliable cash flow. The difference of $260 per month between the FMR and the market rent ensures that properties in this area will not only cover operational costs but also provide a cushion against potential financial downturns.
Despite the high median home value of $380,494, the rental dynamics make ZIP 43046 an ideal choice for maintaining consistent cash flows. Landlords should be aware that the higher rent subsidy does not translate into immediate equity growth, given the lack of data suggesting rapid appreciation or low days on market (DOM).
The area's 23.6% renter share indicates a moderate demand for rental properties, which is supported by a median income of $86,864. While this income level suggests that many residents could afford homeownership, the significant gap between FMR and market rent makes renting attractive for those who prefer not to own or cannot yet qualify for a mortgage. Therefore, the combination of a stable tenant population and higher subsidized rents positions ZIP 43046 as a solid cash-flow anchor for Section 8 portfolios.
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.