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 | $980 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,050 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,371 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,250 | $244,279 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $1,490 | $266,228 | 0.56% | F |
| 4BR | $1,690 | $396,495 | 0.43% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
19.4% of residents in ZIP 43162 (West Jefferson, OH) are renters, indicating a moderate demand for rental properties in the area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for Section 8 housing in this zip code for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1210, which is significantly lower than the local market rent, currently measured at $2,047 according to ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index). This gap suggests that landlords can expect to receive less than market rates when participating in the Section 8 program.
$263,865 is the median home value in West Jefferson, OH, reflecting a stable housing market. However, the median income of $76,250 might pose challenges for potential tenants seeking to qualify for Section 8 vouchers, as their income must be below a certain threshold to be eligible. This could limit the pool of applicants able to afford higher rents even with assistance.
The absence of specific data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of price-cut share indicates a lack of recent foreclosures or distressed sales, which is positive for property values and stability. Yet, it also means there's no significant influx of new, potentially cheaper rental properties entering the market.
In summary, while the Section 8 FMR is well below the market rent, making participation financially viable for some landlords, the relatively low median income could restrict tenant eligibility. The steady median home value and lack of distressed sales signal a stable but not rapidly growing market. For small-portfolio investors looking to diversify their rental offerings, West Jefferson presents an opportunity with manageable risk. Verdict: Suitable for Section 8 participation with careful tenant screening.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.