Location: Muskingum County, OH | Metro: Muskingum 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 | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,360 | $273,514 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 43727 presents a unique challenge for renters given the local economic conditions and rental market dynamics. The median income stands at $57,373, which is a key figure when considering housing affordability. However, the absence of specific market rate data for this area makes it difficult to provide a direct comparison between income levels and typical rental costs.
To better understand the situation, we must turn to the voucher payment standard set by the Fair Market Rent (FMR), which for the metro area covering ZIP 43727 is $990 per month for fiscal year 2026. This indicates the maximum amount that a Section 8 voucher will cover for a unit in this region, assuming the voucher holder contributes 30% of their income towards rent.
With only 5.5% of the 1,202 population being renters, competition among landlords is relatively low. However, the affordability gap becomes apparent when comparing the FMR to the median income. A household earning the median would need to pay approximately $1,721 monthly to meet the 30% contribution requirement for a $990 FMR unit, leaving little room for higher market rates.
This suggests that landlords operating in ZIP 43727 should be cautious about setting rents above the FMR if they wish to attract tenants who can afford the housing. For those considering whether to accept Section 8 vouchers or focus on cash-paying tenants, the data implies that cash-paying tenants might be harder to find due to the limited number of renters and the tight budget constraints many face. Accepting vouchers could be a strategic move to ensure steady tenancy and avoid vacancies.
The takeaway for landlords is clear: while there is room for both voucher and cash-pay strategies, understanding the local income levels and the FMR is crucial. Given the low percentage of renters and the median income, landlords should consider offering units that align closely with the FMR to maximize occupancy and appeal to a broader tenant base.
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.