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 | $1,190 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,270 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,800 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,050 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,378 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,663 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,876 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,020 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,510 | $235,271 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $1,800 | $388,477 | 0.46% | F |
| 4BR | $2,050 | $612,292 | 0.33% | F |
| 5BR | $2,378 | $1,173,234 | 0.2% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 43209, located in Bexley, OH, within the Columbus, OH HUD Metro FMR area, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This classification is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the actual market rent. For fiscal year 2024, the FMR for ZIP 43209 is set at $1190, whereas the market rent stands at $1245. This $55 difference per month highlights the potential stability in rental income that aligns closely with government subsidies.
The median home value in ZIP 43209 is $401,032, indicating a relatively stable housing market. However, the focus for a Section 8 portfolio should be on the rental aspect, which is well-supported by the FMR guidelines. The low 0.3% price-cut share and a 20-day Days on Market (DOM) suggest that properties in this area are sold quickly and at close to asking price, which is beneficial but not the primary driver for a Section 8 investment strategy.
ZIP 43209's 42.1% renter share and median income of $89,713 provide a context where renters are likely to have sufficient disposable income to cover the additional costs beyond the subsidized amount. This ensures a steady and reliable cash flow for landlords who participate in the Section 8 program, making it a dependable component of their overall investment strategy.
To summarize, ZIP 43209 acts as a cash-flow anchor due to the favorable spread between FMR and market rent, ensuring that landlords can maintain consistent income levels while minimizing the risk of vacancies or rent delinquencies. The quick turnover and slight premium in property values offer secondary benefits, but the primary appeal lies in the predictable financial returns from rental income.
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.