Location: Muskingum County, OH | Metro: Columbus, OH HUD Metro FMR Area
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $930 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,370 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
To integrate ZIP 43740 into a Section 8 portfolio strategy, consider it primarily as a cash-flow anchor. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 43740 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1270, while the current market rent stands at $744. This significant spread indicates that properties in this area can be rented out at a higher rate when using Section 8 vouchers compared to the typical market rates.
The cash-flow anchor role is particularly important because it ensures steady and reliable income. Landlords and small-portfolio investors who include ZIP 43740 in their portfolios will benefit from the guaranteed rental income provided by the government, which exceeds the local market rates. This means that even if market conditions change, the FMR provides a safety net, ensuring that the property continues to generate above-average returns.
ZIP 43740's characteristics also support its role as a cash-flow anchor. With a median income of $66,806, residents have the financial stability to meet the requirements of Section 8 eligibility, maintaining a consistent demand for subsidized housing. Additionally, the lack of specific data on median home values and price-cut shares suggests limited potential for significant appreciation, making it less suitable as an appreciation play.
While the 27.9% renter share indicates a reasonable level of diversification, the primary focus should remain on cash flow due to the substantial difference between FMR and market rent. This strategy allows investors to leverage government subsidies to achieve higher yields without the risk associated with volatile market conditions or speculative investments aimed at capital appreciation.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.