Location: Guernsey County, OH | Metro: Guernsey 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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,879 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,104 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,272 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,386 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,000 | $142,282 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $1,340 | $197,862 | 0.68% | D |
| 4BR | $1,620 | $241,223 | 0.67% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median income in ZIP code 43725, which encompasses Cambridge, Ohio, stands at $57,835. This figure is crucial when evaluating the local rental market. The market rate for rent, according to Census ACS data, is $821 per month. To put this into perspective, let's consider how this compares to the financial capabilities of the average household.
A household earning the median income of $57,835 would have an annual disposable income of approximately $46,268 after accounting for the federal poverty level guidelines. Dividing this by 12 months, the monthly disposable income comes out to around $3,856. Renting at the market rate of $821 would consume roughly 21% of the monthly disposable income, which is manageable but leaves little room for other expenses such as utilities, groceries, and transportation.
However, the picture changes significantly when comparing the market rate to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) standard set for the Housing Choice Voucher program, also known as Section 8. For fiscal year 2026, the FMR in the Cambridge metro area is set at $970. This means that voucher holders are able to secure housing at a higher rate than the current market rate, potentially offering landlords a more stable and reliable source of income.
In ZIP 43725, where 34.3% of the 19,453 residents are renters, the affordability gap between the median income and the market rent rate presents a challenge. Landlords must compete not only with each other but also with the limited budget constraints of many renters. This competition can drive down rental rates as landlords seek to fill vacancies, which can be detrimental to maintaining profitability.
The takeaway for landlords considering whether to accept voucher payments or focus on cash-paying tenants is clear. Given the high FMR compared to the market rate and the significant portion of renters in the area, accepting vouchers could provide a more consistent stream of income without the risk of prolonged vacancies. However, landlords should also weigh the administrative complexities and potential delays associated with voucher programs before making a decision.
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.