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 | $970 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,030 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,030 | $124,526 | 0.83% | C |
| 2BR | $1,230 | $197,265 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $293,451 | 0.5% | F |
| 4BR | $1,670 | $370,974 | 0.45% | F |
| 5BR | $1,937 | $438,367 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for investing in Section 8 properties in ZIP code 43113 in Circleville, OH, must be carefully considered. Tenant turnover can be a significant issue, especially when comparing the market rent of $985 to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1080 for FY 2024. This discrepancy suggests that landlords might struggle to retain tenants who are accustomed to the higher FMR rates.
Vacancy exposure is another concern, with an average Days on Market (DOM) of 43 days indicating that properties may remain unoccupied longer than desirable. This extended period without rental income can impact cash flow and overall profitability.
Deferred maintenance poses a financial risk due to the typical home value of $283,692 and a median income of $67,231. Landlords may find themselves spending more on repairs and upkeep than anticipated, as residents might not have the resources to maintain homes to the necessary standards.
However, these risks are mitigated by the high renter share of 32.1%. A large proportion of renters typically translates into higher demand for housing vouchers, which can stabilize occupancy rates and provide a reliable source of income through the Section 8 program.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.