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 | $1,450 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,550 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,850 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,912 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,261 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,522 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,698 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,850 | $225,019 | 0.82% | C |
| 3BR | $2,200 | $401,758 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $2,510 | $553,106 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $2,912 | $693,605 | 0.42% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The dynamics of ZIP 43085, located in Worthington, OH, indicate a market in equilibrium, with slight signs that demand may be catching up to supply. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,510, closely matching the actual market rent, known as the Zillow Observed Rental Index (ZORI), which stands at $1,537. This alignment suggests that rental prices are reflective of the area's economic realities.
A key indicator of market health is the price-cut share, which in this case is a minimal 0.2%. This low figure implies that landlords are not frequently lowering their rents, indicating a stable market where properties are likely to be rented at or near the asking price. Additionally, the Days on Market (DOM) statistic of 17 days for rental listings further supports this stability, as it shows that properties are being leased relatively quickly.
The median home value of $404,666 places Worthington in a moderate-to-high-value bracket for the region, suggesting that homeownership is a significant aspect of the local economy. However, with a 29.5% renter share, it's evident that a considerable portion of the population prefers renting over buying. This high renter share can be indicative of long-term housing pressure, as it signals a persistent demand for rental properties. It also suggests that there could be a growing number of renters who are either unable or unwilling to purchase homes, possibly due to financial constraints or lifestyle choices.
In summary, ZIP 43085 presents a balanced market with a slight lean towards demand. The low price-cut share and quick DOM times suggest that rental properties are sought after and valued at their listed prices. With a significant portion of the population choosing to rent, landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect a steady demand for rental units, making the area attractive for investment in rental properties.
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.