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 | $1,630 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,080 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,480 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,271 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,664 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,957 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,155 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,080 | $412,590 | 0.5% | F |
| 3BR | $2,480 | $493,113 | 0.5% | F |
| 4BR | $2,820 | $595,859 | 0.47% | F |
| 5BR | $3,271 | $791,519 | 0.41% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP 43082, located in the Westerville, OH, Columbus, OH HUD Metro FMR Area, does not fully align with the federal guidelines. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1800 for the fiscal year 2024 exceeds the actual market rent, which is measured at $1,605 (ZORI). This indicates that properties priced at the federal benchmark might struggle to attract tenants willing to pay the current market rate.
Acquisition in this ZIP code is relatively affordable. With a median home value of $544,982, the real estate market offers a reasonable entry point for investors. Additionally, the 17-day Days on Market (DOM) suggests a brisk sales pace, while the 0.2% share of homes experiencing price cuts highlights a stable housing market where property values are unlikely to depreciate significantly.
Tenant demand in ZIP 43082 is moderate. The area has a population of 34,563, with 13.3% of residents being renters. This means approximately 4,592 individuals are actively seeking rental properties. However, the relatively low renter share indicates that the majority of residents own their homes, potentially leading to a smaller pool of potential tenants compared to areas with higher renter shares.
In conclusion, while the acquisition costs in ZIP 43082 are manageable, the discrepancy between the FMR and the ZORI could pose challenges for landlords aiming to comply with federal standards. The moderate tenant demand suggests a viable but competitive market for rental properties. Landlords should consider setting rents closer to the ZORI figure to ensure occupancy rates remain healthy.
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.