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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $920 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,728 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,935 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $920 | $128,248 | 0.72% | D |
| 2BR | $1,130 | $195,035 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,440 | $267,177 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $1,490 | $353,067 | 0.42% | F |
| 5BR | $1,728 | $449,036 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The neighborhood in ZIP code 43050, located in Mount Vernon, OH, is part of a community with a total population of 31,074 residents. Thirty-two point five percent of these residents are renters, indicating a significant demand for rental properties. The median household income stands at $64,108, which provides a stable economic foundation for the area. Additionally, the median home value is $244,516, reflecting a moderate cost of living and property investment.
From an investment perspective, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 43050 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,080. This figure is notably higher than the average market rent reported by the Census American Community Survey (ACS), which is $967. This discrepancy suggests that Section 8 vouchers could cover a substantial portion of the market rent, making it attractive for landlords who want to ensure steady cash flow without the risk of non-payment.
The landscape in ZIP 43050 is well-suited for both hands-off voucher operators and hands-on value-add buyers. For hands-off operators, the stability provided by the Section 8 program, with its guaranteed rent payments up to the FMR, offers a reliable income stream with minimal tenant turnover. On the other hand, for hands-on investors looking to add value, there is potential to improve properties and charge closer to the FMR, thereby increasing profitability while still maintaining affordability for tenants.
In summary, ZIP 43050 in Mount Vernon, OH, presents a balanced opportunity for real estate investors interested in the Section 8 program. With a sizable rental market and a gap between the FMR and the actual market rent, there is room for both passive and active strategies to succeed. The local economy supports a steady income base, and property values indicate a reasonable entry point for investment.
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.