Location: Williams County, OH | Metro: Toledo, OH MSA
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 | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,070 | $162,664 | 0.66% | D |
| 3BR | $1,380 | $199,217 | 0.69% | D |
| 4BR | $1,410 | $236,047 | 0.6% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP code 43570, which includes West Unity, Ohio, is set at $860 per month for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the maximum amount that a landlord can charge for rent under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. It's important to note that this is not the actual rent you will receive; it's the ceiling on what can be charged to voucher holders.
In comparison, the average monthly rent in the area, according to the latest Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, is $891. This indicates that the FMR is slightly below the market rate, suggesting that landlords participating in the Section 8 program might see a modest reduction in rent compared to non-subsidized tenants.
The rental share in this area is 27.5%, meaning that nearly a quarter of the households are renters. This statistic suggests a reasonable demand for rental properties, particularly those that can accommodate Section 8 vouchers. With an average household income of around $187,871, it's clear that the local economy supports a mix of homeowners and renters, creating a stable environment for investment.
Before deciding to participate in the Section 8 program with your first rental property, ensure that your property meets the minimum housing quality standards, known as the Housing Quality Standards (HQS). These standards cover a range of basic conditions, including safety, habitability, and structural integrity. Compliance with these standards is mandatory for all Section 8 properties and is essential to avoid any issues with the housing authority.
Participating in Section 8 can offer steady rental income and a reliable tenant base, but it also comes with specific responsibilities and regulations. The FMR of $860 provides a clear benchmark for pricing your rental units, while the local rent average of $891 helps gauge the potential impact on your income. Given the 27.5% renter share, there is a solid demand for rental properties in West Unity, making it a viable option for investment.
To summarize, the FMR sets the maximum rent for voucher holders, and you must confirm that your property complies with HQS before entering the program. This ensures a smooth process and avoids any legal complications.
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.