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 | $990 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,260 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,984 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,222 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,260 | $147,241 | 0.86% | C |
| 3BR | $1,500 | $186,555 | 0.8% | C |
| 4BR | $1,710 | $188,013 | 0.91% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
To integrate ZIP 43222, located within the Columbus, OH HUD Metro FMR area, into a Section 8 portfolio strategy, one must consider the financial metrics and market conditions. This ZIP code stands out as a cash-flow anchor.
The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 43222 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1050. In contrast, the market rent for the same period is $1479, indicating a significant gap. This spread means that landlords can expect steady, guaranteed income through Section 8 vouchers, which will cover a substantial portion of the market rent, ensuring positive cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 43222 is $162,956. Given the FMR and market rent figures, properties in this area can be acquired and rented out with a high degree of confidence that the rental income will meet or exceed the mortgage payments, thus serving as a reliable cash-flow generator.
The 66.4% renter share in ZIP 43222 further supports the viability of a cash-flow anchor strategy. Landlords can count on a large pool of potential tenants who rely on rental assistance programs, thereby minimizing vacancy rates and ensuring consistent rental income.
In conclusion, ZIP 43222 is best positioned as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy due to the favorable spread between the FMR and market rent, the strong market conditions, and the high percentage of renters eligible for the program.
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.