Location: Shelby County, OH | Metro: Champaign County, OH
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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,554 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,973 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,250 | $239,454 | 0.52% | F |
| 4BR | $1,340 | $251,223 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 43343 presents an interesting scenario for both renters and landlords. With a median income of $63,438, households here face challenges in affording the market rate rent of $779. This makes up a significant portion of their income, approximately 15.4%, which is already above the recommended guideline of 30% of gross income for housing costs.
Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $970 for the fiscal year 2026 is higher than the current market rate, indicating that the voucher payment standard is designed to cover more expensive housing options. However, the difference between the market rate and the FMR suggests a substantial affordability gap for tenants relying on vouchers, as they might find it difficult to secure housing that meets the FMR criteria within this ZIP code.
Given that 22.1% of the 1,366 residents are renters, there is a notable demand for affordable housing. Landlords must be aware that the competition for tenants is influenced by the affordability gap; those who can offer rents closer to the market rate of $779 will likely attract more tenants than those charging closer to the FMR.
The takeaway for landlords considering voucher vs. cash-pay strategies is clear: while accepting vouchers ensures a steady stream of rental income, it also limits the pool of potential tenants to those with vouchers. Conversely, setting rents at or below the market rate could attract a broader range of tenants, potentially increasing occupancy rates and reducing vacancy periods. Landlords should weigh these factors carefully, considering the local economic conditions and tenant preferences when deciding their rental pricing strategy.
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.